The Dual Nature of Exploitation Films

This chapter examines the complex role of exploitation films in cinema, focusing on how they both objectified and empowered women through strong female leads. It traces the evolution of these films from the 60s and 70s, highlighting iconic examples like 'The Toxic Avenger' and 'Reefer Madness,' while discussing their impact on audiences and subsequent media. The chapter also reflects on the shift towards increasingly graphic content and the cultural messages portrayed in films like 'Freaks' and 'Bad Taste.'