Le "coppie miste" e il cinema. Casi di studio in Europa e negli U.S.A.

Abstract

This article explores the topic of mixed couples through socio-anthropological lens, navigating between reality and representation. Such relationships provide a unique perspective on the intricate dynamic of pluralism, cultural diversity and social inclusion/exclusion in the twenty-first century. Following an overview of the current state of the art on mixed couples, this study applies these insights to analyse a selection of European and American films from the 1960s to the present day. When cinema portrays mixed couples, it not only depicts the reality of inter-ethnic encounters between individual from different cultural backgrounds but also reflects how it is perceived by various Western societies. As we delve into the critical review ahead, we will discover significant differences not only in representation and, therefore, in the existential approach to the topic and its issue but also in the reception of cinematic works addressing the topic between United States of America and Europe. Our aim, therefore, is to understand the reasons of cultural and national difference in the perception of the issues related to mixed couples.