The book investigates the complex relationship between American audiences and foreign films from the post-war era to the early 1970s. Tino Balio, a noted film historian, examines the distribution, exhibition, and reception of international cinema within the American market. The work analyzes how foreign films, ranging from French New Wave to Italian Neorealism, found their place on American screens, challenging and influencing domestic production and audience tastes during a pivotal period of cinematic evolution.

The book is recognized for its comprehensive historical account of foreign film's impact on American cinema. Scholars and critics have noted its detailed research into distribution patterns and exhibition practices, highlighting how international films shaped American cinematic trends. The work is considered a significant contribution to understanding the cultural exchange between Hollywood and global filmmaking during the mid-20th century. It provides a thorough analysis of a dynamic period in film history.