Feminist Film Studies seeks to provide a readable, yet comprehensive textbook that can be used in introductory classes in feminist film theory and criticism. Karen Hollinger provides an accessible overview of the field of women and film complemented by analyses of key texts that illustrate major topics in the field. The text covers a wide range of areas in which women's representation and involvement in film are paramount issues. Key areas include: A brief history of the development of feminist film theory The theorization of the male gaze and the female spectator Women in genre films and literary adaptations The female biopic Feminism and the avant-garde and documentary film Women as auteurs Black women in film Lesbian representation Women in third cinema Reception studies. Each chapter will include a "Films in Focus" section, which will analyze key texts related to the chapter's major topic, including examples from the early 20th Century and contemporary films, such as Sex in the City. This book will offer students in both film and gender/women's studies a clear introduction to the field of feminist film theory and criticism.