In 1995, cinema underwent a radical transformation as traditional notions of heroism were replaced with complex, morally ambiguous characters who blurred the lines between good and evil. In The Antihero and Moral Ambiguity in 1995 Cinema, Aaron Stewart takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dark, morally charged films of the year, exploring how the rise of antiheroes reshaped the cinematic landscape.

From the ruthless revenge-driven plots of GoldenEye to the bleak existential battles of Heat and the disturbing philosophical questions in Se7en, Stewart dissects the multifaceted characters who challenged conventional notions of morality, turning villains into antiheroes and heroes into deeply flawed individuals. These films, often set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world — marked by the end of the Cold War and the rise of new geopolitical uncertainties — reflect the growing disillusionment with traditional systems of power, justice, and identity.

Drawing from the works of influential filmmakers and thinkers, Stewart brings a deep analysis of the ideological shifts of the 1990s, examining how these films presented a world in which personal codes, emotional scars, and a loss of trust in institutions led to a new kind of hero: one who is just as likely to break the law as to uphold it. This book is an essential read for film enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone fascinated by the cultural shifts that redefined action films and thrillers, offering a fresh perspective on some of the most iconic cinematic works of the decade.