Songs take up space and time in films. Richard Dyer''s In the Space of a Song takes off from this perception, arguing that the way songs take up space indicates a great deal about the songs themselves, the nature of the feelings they present, and who is allowed to present feelings how, when and where. In the Space of a Song explores this perception through a range of examples, from classic MGM musicals to blaxploitation cinema, with the career of Lena Horne providing a turning point in the cultural dynamics of the feeling.

Chapters include:

• The perfection of Meet Me in St. Louis
• A Star Is Born and the construction of authenticity
• ‘I seem to find the happiness I seek’: Heterosexuality and dance in the musical
• The space of happiness in the musical
• Singing prettily: Lena Horne in Hollywood
• Is Car Wash a musical?
• Music and presence in blaxploitation cinema

In the Space of a Song is ideal for both scholars and students of film studies.