Portrayal of Pakistani Culture in Hollywood Movies: Pre and Post 9/11

Abstract

Movies have a tremendous impact on how people think and feel about various subjects, the portrayal of other cultures in film has been a topic worthy of critical study for a long time. This research aims to investigate the portrayal of Pakistani Culture in Hollywood films before the tragic events of September 11, 2001, by conducting a qualitative content analysis of Hollywood films. Before and after 9/11, two movies were selected through a purposive sampling technique. The results showed that Hollywood films frequently incorporate stereotyped depictions of Pakistani Culture and vigorously spread Orientalist generalizations about the country's people and their history. The researchers developed six themes after reviewing the extensive literature where gender inequity is pervasive, and individuals confront the ever-present threat of terrorist attacks. This image contributes to perpetuating negative generalizations about Pakistan and its people. Extremism and terrorism are the most prevalent issues in this study's pre-9/11 segment. Moreover, espionage and intrigue is the most prevalent theme in selected movies.