Goldfinger

     I found that themes from Guy Hamilton’s film Goldfinger 1964 could be compared to ideas from Chris Barker’s Cultural Politics and Cultural Policy. Barker argues that “cultural studies consistently claims to be centered on issues of power, politics and the need for change.” The themes from the film Goldfinger share similar ideas. The character James Bond is a dashing, intellectual of a spy and dabbles in danger, politics and for higher power. Barker also argues that “cultural studies is a body of theory reflexively produced with the idea that this process is a political practice.” Moments from Goldfinger like the black tie, smoking cigar, and drinking alcohol scene is a good example of cultural studies within this film. The men in this scene portray wealthy, elite and sophisticated white males discussing politics, power and money. Again you see a group of wealthy men playing golf and again placing high bids on the game of gin. The film focuses in on these ideals and as a culture we take it all in to our lives. Another example from the film is for higher power. Goldfinger wanted the most power, or thought he did have the most power at one point. By trying to diminish the value of the United States gold supply was one attempt at gaining higher power. Also, by working with people from European backgrounds he was able to own powerful explosives and devices to help him accomplish his evil plans. He insisted on the need for change by wanting to be the first to succeed in the venture of crime. Lastly the idea of politics is another obvious theme within the film. The character James Bond is described as the Cold War hero. The Cold War is heavily involved with politics, economy and the highest power. Bond to has access to expensive high-tech spy equipment, which portrays him as a powerful war hero…

Barker, Chris. Cultural Studies Theory and Practice, Chapter14: Cultural Politics and Cultural Policy. Sage, 2008.