FLASH GORDON

Serial like Sunday paper - have to wait to see what will happen.

Filmic aspects:

Sets like drawings - appear drawn in

Cuts are often with wipes in the shape of lightning or other forms

Social Commentary

Asian motif: Tao (Chinese religion); Ming (Chinese dynasty; Planet Mongo (Mongol?) Dragon like fire monster. Use of set from The Mummy involves ancient Egypt as negative event.

Some have called the Flash Gordon serial "The Triumph of Demcracy". Can you see why?

Oriental despotism in Ming (Mongo, Tao etc.) European feudalism (subservient kingdoms (Shark men, Lion Men, Hawk men all under Ming)

What can you say about gender in the serial? How daoes Dale Arden (ardent?) comapre with Aura?