"In most of the European countries - France stands out in its resistance to this particular form of American cultural imperialism - the national film industries were forced onto the defensive after the war by such binding agreements"

Fredric Jameson, a popular American literary critic and theorist, typically explores themes of cultural imperialism and globalization. In the quote you have actually supplied, he talks about the dominance of American cultural exports in post-World War II Europe, particularly through the lens of cinema.

### Cultural Imperialism and American Influence

The term "American cultural imperialism" refers to the extensive impact of American culture across the globe, frequently regarded as a by-product of America's financial and military power. Post-World War II, the United States became a cultural powerhouse, exporting movies, music, and other kinds of entertainment to different parts of the world. The quote reviews how this influence penetrated Europe, a continent rebuilding itself after the war. American films, with their large budget plans and broad appeal, became a staple in European theatres, potentially overshadowing regional movie industries.

### France's Resistance

Jameson highlights France as an exception in Europe, standing out in its "resistance to this specific type of American cultural imperialism". France's resistance can be comprehended in numerous methods. Culturally and politically, France has constantly preserved a strong sense of national identity and pride in its artistic traditions. The French federal government has historically carried out policies to secure and promote its cinematic industry, such as aids for French filmmakers and quotas for French films in theaters. Called "l'exception culturelle", this technique intends to preserve France's cultural heritage and guarantee that French movie theater keeps a substantial presence domestically.

### National Film Industries on the Defensive

The expression "nationwide movie markets were forced onto the defensive" recommends that European nations besides France struggled to take on the increase of American films. The "binding contracts" could describe trade deals or policies that favored the distribution of American movies, making it tough for regional industries to prosper. This defensive position suggests a reactive stance, where European markets needed to adjust to or resist the pervasive influence of American movie theater to protect their cultural output.

In summary, Jameson's quote highlights the complex characteristics of cultural exchange and dominance in post-war Europe, highlighting France's unique position in securing its cinematic identity against a background of American cultural proliferation.