"American Independent" cinema has been an important creative and cultural media entity for the past fifteen years. "Declarations of Independence" questions the supposed autonomy of this cinema and asks if independent film can possibly survive in the face of the mass-production and profit of Hollywood. Berra gives detailed insights into the core product with reference to specific films and studies of audiences and their enthusiasm for this type of alternative media."American Independent" cinema continues to grow as a fashionable scene and "Declarations of Independence" analyses its popularity, economic viability and the production process of so-called 'niche' cinema. Berra uses directors such as Quentin Tarantino and Steven Soderberg as examples of those who have crossed successfully into the cultural mainstream, altering media and public perception.This title provides an unique structural approach - the arguments presented mirror the actual film production process. It discusses topical subject matter - a critical look at currently fashionable scene within mainstream media and its public perception.