Hollywood Scripts: Do American Films About Africa Influence International Perception of the Continent? (A Case Study on the Impact of the Animated Film "Madagascar" on the Image of the Republic of Madagascar)

The subject of this study is the mechanisms of cultural influence exerted by Hollywood films, particularly the animated film Madagascar, on the perception of the specificity and national identity of the Republic of Madagascar. The object of the study is the international image of Madagascar, formed under the influence of mass culture, especially Hollywood films. These films, widely distributed worldwide, often transmit simplified and stereotypical representations, significantly affecting public opinion and international perception. The aim of this research is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the role of Hollywood films in shaping Madagascar’s international image. The study examines both positive aspects, such as increasing global awareness of the country, and negative consequences, including reinforcing cultural stereotypes. Special attention is paid to how mass culture, embodied in the animated film Madagascar, shapes perceptions of the country abroad. The methodology includes content analysis of media materials (such as film reviews), sociological surveys conducted among a representative and culturally diverse international sample, and organization of focus groups to deeply study perceptions. The surveys aimed to identify key stereotypes, while focus groups provided detailed insights. The main findings show that the film substantially increased Madagascar’s recognition but also contributed to reinforcing stereotypical, oversimplified images that distort the country’s complex cultural characteristics. The author’s contribution lies in identifying mechanisms of mass culture influence on international perceptions, establishing connections between media products and national image, and developing approaches for more accurate representation. The novelty of the study is in the interdisciplinary approach to analyzing mass culture and country perception amid globalizations. The research highlights the need for cooperation between filmmakers and government bodies to create accurate images that minimize the negative impact of stereotypes. Practical significance includes developing cultural policy and national branding strategies aimed at forming a balanced image of the country internationally.

Hollywood films, American cinema, Africa, Madagascar, cultural perception, animated film, film influence, international perception, stereotypes, branding