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On Individual Films

See also: On Individual Film: Backlist

The Art and Making of The Sorcerer's ApprenticeThe Art and Making of The Sorcerer's Apprentice
Michael Singer
Written by insider Michael Singer, this book gives readers insider access to the cast, crew, sets, and production. In pitch-perfect tone, Singer takes fans on a guided tour from the film's inception in a high school auditorium in Southern California to its completion on the elaborate stages and sets, with stops along the way at some of New York City's most respectable landmarks. Hardcover, 143 pp. $41.00.


Sweet Smell of Success: BFI Film Classics	Sweet Smell of Success: BFI Film Classics
James Naremore
James Naremore's masterly study of Sweet Smell of Success offers new information about the many revisions of the screenplay, the production company's negotiations with censors and the tense circumstances under which the film was shot and received by the public. Naremore places the film in its historical context, arguing that it functioned as the revenge of the Hollywood left against a repressive political and media environment that was beginning to change and momentarily lose its power. He also provides a detailed commentary on the finished product, analysing the important contributions of its several talented creators. Softcover, 110 pp. $18.00.


La Regle du JeuLa Regle du Jeu

Keith Reader
In this essential companion to one of the great films of world cinema, Keith Reader focuses on La Regle du Jeu in the context of both the time in which it was made and the currents of intertexuality by which it has traversed. In all, this monograph makes a convincing case as to why the film remains so central to French cinema and to the history of French and indeed European culture. Softcover, 124 pp. $29.50.


Joyce Wieland's The Far ShoreJoyce Wieland's The Far Shore

Johanne Sloan
Johanne Sloan's examination of Joyce Wieland's 1976 film The Far Shore provides a smart, original, and readable introduction to the film itself, while situating it within the larger context of Wieland's extensive and varied artistic production. Softcover, 134 pp. $16.95.


Alice in Wonderland: A Visual CompanionAlice in Wonderland: A Visual Companion
Mark Salisbury
In this eye-popping companion to the hit film, Mark Salisbury presents us with the concept artwork, set and costume designs, and all of the other visual developments that Tim Burton and his talented crew used to bring this classic story to the screen. Hardcover, 248 pp. $60.00.

Star Wars: BFI Film ClassicsStar Wars: BFI Film Classics
Will Brooker
Will Brooker's illuminating study provides a close analysis of Star Wars as a film, carefully examining its shots, editing, sound design, cinematography and performances. Placing the film in the context of George Lucas's previous work, from his student shorts to his 1970s features, Brooker's fascinating argument is that Star Wars is not, as Lucas himself has claimed, a departure from his earlier cinema, but actually a continuation of his experiments with sound and image. Softcover, 96 pp. $16.95.


La Grande Illusion: BFI Film Classics

Julian Jackson
This compelling study places La Grande Illusion in the context of director Jean Renoir's involvement with the left-wing Popular Front, which was split between supporters of an anti-Fascist war and believers in peace at all costs. Author Julian Jackson highlights the film's ambiguity in its treatment of patriotism and pacifism, its unforgettable performances, and Renoir's highly individual filming style. Softcover, 116 pp. $16.95.


The Moment of PsychoThe Moment of Psycho

David Thomson
In this fascinating analysis, renowned film critic David Thomson vividly situates Psycho in Alfred Hitchcock's career, re-creating the mood and time when the seminal film erupted onto film screens worldwide and effectively reinvented the standards of cinematic sex, violence, and horror. This low-budget film from a sixty-year-old British director, all of a sudden, represented everything that America wanted from a film -- and, as The Moment of Psycho brilliantly demonstrates, still does. Hardcover, 183 pp. $29.00.


The Making of Some Like it HotThe Making of Some Like it Hot: My Memories of Marilyn Monroe and the Classic American Movie

Tony Curtis & Mark A. Viera
Some Like it Hot occupies a unique place in American culture. This beloved classic showcases five comic geniuses: Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon, I.A.L. Diamond, Billy Wilder, and Marilyn Monroe. It has been honored by the American Film Institute as the "Funniest Film of All Time." It has contributed quotes, styles, and stories to film lore. Yet the full story of its making has never been told -- until now. Hardcover, 232 pp. $30.95.


Casablanca Movies and Memory
Marc Auge
Marc Auge was eleven or twelve years old when he first saw Casablanca. The film -- with its recurring scenes of waiting, menace, and flight -- occupies a significant place in Auge's own memory of his uprooted childhood and the wartime exploits of his family. Seamlessly weaving together film criticism and memoir, this book moves between Auge's insights into the filmgoing experience and his reflections on his own life. Softcover, 104 pp. $23.95.


The Making of Fantastic Mr. FoxThe Making of Fantastic Mr. Fox

Wes Anderson
This is an intricate and lavishly illustrated look behind the scenes at the extraordinary talent and attention that went into the creation of the film -- from Wes Anderson's storyboards, notes, and sketches to in-depth explorations of the construction of the puppets, and from Eric Anderson's early artwork for the cast of characters to Ray Lewis's beautiful photographs of the sets. Hardcover, 185 pp. $42.00.


Gods and MonstersGods and Monsters
Noah Tsika
Bill Condon's Gods and Monsters was one of the most widely acclaimed movies of 1998 and it garnered Oscar nominations for the performances of Ian McKellen and Vanessa Redgrave, and a win for Condon's screenplay. Noah Tsika's book examines the movie from a variety of perspectives, highlighting the complexity and significance of its achievements, including its fusion of fantasy and biography. Softcover, 169 pp. $15.95.


Star Trek: The Art of the FilmStar Trek: The Art of the Film
Mark Cotta Vaz
This a lavishly illustrated celebration of J.J. Abrams' new vision of the greatest space adventure of all time. Mark Van Cotta traces the evolution of the movie's look through a stunning array of previously unpublished pre-production art, concept sketches, costume and set designs, unit photography and final frames. Hardcover, 160 pp. $37.00.


Responses to Oliver Stone's Alexander: Film, History, and Cultural Studies
Paul Cartledge & Fiona Rose Greenland
This fascinating collection of essays scrutinizes the Oliver Stone film from its inception and design to its production and reception, considering such questions as: Can a film about Alexander be both entertaining and historically sound? How do the goals of screenwriters and directors differ from those of historians? How do Alexander's personal relationships -- with his mother Olympias, his wife Roxanne, his lover Hephaistion, and others -- affect modern perceptions of Alexander? Several of the contributors also explore reasons behind the film's tepid response at the box office and subsequent controversies. Softcover, 370 pp. $32.95.


Artificial Intelligence: From Stanley Kubrick to Steven Spielberg: The Vision Behind the Film Jan Harlan & Jane M. Struthers Copiously planned and researched by Stanley Kubrick since 1984, A.I. Artificial Intelligence would only reach the screen after the great director's death when, in 2001, Steven Spielberg took over the project. This book tells the fascinating story about how two of the greatest of all filmmakers conceived of, developed, and finally brought this unique film to fruition. At the heart of this remarkable book are scores of archival material, including pages from Kubrick's notebooks as well as highly imaginative conceptual drawings by Chris Baker -- some of which is available here for the first time ever! Hardcover, 159 pp. $75.00. Artificial Intelligence: From Stanley Kubrick to Steven Spielberg: The Vision Behind the Film
Jan Harlan & Jane M. Struthers
Copiously planned and researched by Stanley Kubrick since 1984, A.I. Artificial Intelligence would only reach the screen after the great director's death when, in 2001, Steven Spielberg took over the project. This book tells the fascinating story about how two of the greatest of all filmmakers conceived of, developed, and finally brought this unique film to fruition. At the heart of this remarkable book are scores of archival material, including pages from Kubrick's notebooks as well as highly imaginative conceptual drawings by Chris Baker -- some of which is available here for the first time ever! Hardcover, 159 pp. $75.00.


The Spanish PrisonerThe Spanish Prisoner
Yannis Tzioumakis
Featuring a convoluted narrative, an excessive, often anti-classical, visual style, and belonging to the generic category of the 'con game film' which often challenges the spectator's efforts to comprehend the narrative, The Spanish Prisoner is a genre film infused with the personal imprint of an auteur. This book discusses the film as an example of contemporary American independent cinema while also using the film as a vehicle to explore several key ideas in film studies, especially in terms of aesthetics, narrative, style, spectatorship, genre, and industry. Softcover, 154 pp. $25.00.


Atom Egoyan's The AdjusterAtom Egoyan's The Adjuster

Tom McSorley
An intelligent analysis and clear explication of Atom Egoyan's puzzle-like film. Tom McSorely's interpretation sheds light on the film's themes of alienation, over-materialism, and emotional detachment. Softcover, 104 pp. $16.95.

The Secret History of Star WarsThe Secret History of Star Wars
Michael Kaminski
In this thorough account of one of cinema's most lasting works, Michael Kaminski presents the true history of how Star Wars was written, from its beginnings as a science fiction fairy tale to its development over three decades into the epic we know now, chronicling the methods, techniques, thought processes, and struggles of its creator. Softcover, 610 pp. $44.95.


Film Classics: 8 1/2Film Classics: 8 1/2

D.A. Miller
In this examination of Fellini's autobiographical film 8 1/2, D.A. Miller suggests that the enduring timeliness of it lies in its aggressive shirking of the shame that falls on the man -- and the artist -- who fails his appointed social responsibilities. Softcover, 120 pp. $16.95.


Just When You Thought it was Safe: A Jaws CompanionJust When You Thought it was Safe: A Jaws Companion
Patrick Jankiewicz
Did you used to hate the water, but can't imagine why? Do you feel a constant need for a bigger boat? Do you want the mayor to close the beaches? If you answered 'yes' to all three questions, then this is the book for you! Just when you thought that you knew everything there was to know about Jaws, along comes a book like Just When You Thought it was Safe. Even Jaws fanatics will be amazed by this wealth of Jaws history and trivia. Softcover, 233 pp. $29.95.


Psycho in the ShowerPsycho in the Shower

Philip J. Skerry
In this unprecedented volume, Philip J. Skerry has written a book-length treatise about a single scene from a single movie: the shower scene in Psycho. Through interviews and insightful analysis, Skerry sheds light on Hitchcock's career, filmmaking style, and the extraordinary impact that this one scene had on moviegoers. Softcover, 316 pp. $21.95.


The BigamistThe Bigamist

Amelie Hastie
Amelie Hastie explores this unique film noir in the context of director/co-star Ida Lupino's personal and professional history. This is a film, Hastie argues, that reveals the changing structure of Hollywood film production in light of the emergence of independent studios; it delineates the life and exemplifies the work of one of only two women directors in the 'Classical' Hollywood era; and it provides a complex commentary on the fantasies and fear of mid-century domestic life in the USA. Softcover, 96 pp. $16.95.


My WinnipegMy Winnipeg

Guy Maddin
Herewith, venture deeper into the mind of Guy Maddin with the text of his narration, wantonly annotated with an avalanche of marginal digressions, stills, outtakes, family photos, emails, essays, deoculations, animations, notebook pages and collages. Softcover with DVD. 188 pp. $35.95.


Conquest of the UselessConquest of the Useless
Werner Herzog
One of the most revered filmmakers of our time, Werner Herzog wrote this diary during the fever dream production of Fitzcarraldo. Hailed by critics around the globe, the film went on to win Herzog the 1982 Outstanding Director Prize at Cannes. Conquest of the Useless is an extraordinary glimpse into the mind of a genius during the making of one of his greatest achievements. Hardcover, 306 pp. $32.99.


John Woo's "The Killer"John Woo's "The Killer"
Kenneth E. Hall
A classic tale of loyalty and bloody betrayal, John Woo's The Killer was centrally important to the growth of Hong Kong cinema in the 1980s and 1990s. Illustrating the film's place in the tradition of Chinese and Hong Kong cinema, Kenneth Hall documents the strong influence of Woo's mentor Chang Cheh as well as Jean-Pierre Melville and other film noir pioneers. Hall also analyzes the film's influence on other directors, including Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino. Softcover, 125 pp. $21.95.


The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Cultographies
Jeffrey Weinstock
Within just a few years, The Rocky Horror Picture Show grew from an oddball musical to a celebrated cinematic experience of midnight features and outrageous audience participation. This study tells the extraordinary story of the film from initial reception to eventual cult status, indeed becoming the classic cult film par excellence. Softcover, $18.95.


This is Spinal Tap: CultographiesThis is Spinal Tap: Cultographies
Ethan de Seife
Addressing general cinephiles and devoted Tapheads alike, this study considers this classic 'rockumentry' within the contexts of cult cinema, real and mock documentary, Hollywood comedies and musicals, and the history of rock music. This detailed stylistic and comic analysis of the film thus offers new insights into the ardent Cult of Tap. Softcover, 131 pp. $18.95.


Donnie Darko: CultographiesDonnie Darko: Cultographies
Geoff King
Largely ignored during its North American theatrical release, Donnie Darko was virtually resurrected as a cult classic in the UK and upon its subsequent domestic DVD release. This exciting monograph interprets the efforts of the then novice director Richard Kelly and also discusses fans' reactions to the film's enigmatic conclusion, explaining how Donnie Darko gripped the imagination of cinephiles across the world. Softcover, $18.95.


Bad Taste: CultographiesBad Taste: Cultographies
Jim Barratt
In the gifted hands of Peter Jackson, Bad Taste became an instant cult classic, thus launching the career of the now Oscar-winning director. This book recounts the fascinating story of the film's unconventional, homemade production and its unexpected success at the Cannes Film Festival before examining the roots of its global cult appeal as a pioneering work of 'splatstick.' Softcover, 106 pp. $18.95.


Terminator Salvation: The Official Movie CompanionTerminator Salvation: The Official Movie Companion

Tara Bennett
This official companion to the epic new chapter in the Terminator saga is the complete guide to the making of the movie. Inside, you'll take a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects being created at Stan Winston's Studio Workshop. Also, you can read exclusive cast and crew interviews as well as look at hundreds of on-set photographs, production sketches, and storyboards. Softcover, 173 pp. $22.95.


Born to Be HurtBorn to Be Hurt: The Untold Story of Imitation of Life

Sam Staggs
This is the first in-depth "biography" of Douglas Sirk's 1959 drama Imitation of Life. Sam Staggs traces the movie's arc from the original story in Fannie Hurst's novel right through the writing and casting to the filming, the promotion, the controversy over its themes, and the reception it received. He's unearthed new details about director Sirk, legendary producer Ross Hunter, and all the stars, and gives the film its due as influential to several generations of film fans. Hardcover, 422 pp. $32.95.


Coraline: A Visual CompanionCoraline: A Visual Companion

Stephen Jones
Featuring hundreds of rare and exclusive photographs and illustrations, production designs and concept drawings, and interviews with the cast and crew, Coraline: A Visual Companion takes readers on an in-depth tour behind the scenes of a movie that is destined to be a fantasy classic. Hardcover, 229 pp. $48.99.


Frankly, My Dear: Gone With the Wind RevisitedFrankly, My Dear: Gone With the Wind Revisited
Molly Haskell
In the first book ever to deal simultaneously with Margaret Mitchell's beloved novel and David Selznick's spectacular film version of Gone With The Wind, film critic Molly Haskell embarks on an exploration of one of the most captivating stories ever told. Softcover, 244 pp. $18.00.



Watchmen: The Film Companion Watchmen: The Film Companion
Peter Aperlo
One of the most highly anticipated films of all time, Watchmen is set to take the world by storm and redefine whatwe consider a hero. Featuring interviews with the cast and crew, behind-the-scenes secrets, in-depth background material relating to the world of the Watchmen, and scores of stunning photos, this is the comprehensive guide to the film. Softcover, 190 pp. $22.95.


Bond on Set: Filming Quantum of SolaceBond on Set: Filming Quantum of Solace

Greg Williams
Working alongside the filmmaking crew, photographer Greg Williams has captured all of the behind-the-scenes glamour and excitement of being on location, with unique, candid shots of the stars, and sequences featuring many of the film's breathtaking set pieces. Hardcover, 159 pp. $22.00.


Citizen Kane: Crash Course in CinematograhyCitizen Kane: Crash Course in Cinematography

David Worth
This book is like eavesdropping on a conversation with the cinematic wonder boy Orson Welles and legendary cinematographer Gregg Toland. Guaranteed to provoke controversy as it instructs and entertains, this "graphic textbook" deftly merges a fictionalized account of an Orson Welles and Greg Toland brainstorming weekend in Hollywood with the ABC's of Cinematography. Softcover, 120 pp. $23.95.


The Lost Journal of Indiana JonesThe Lost Journal of Indiana Jones

The Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation is pleased to release one of its most prized holdings, the heretofore "lost" journal of Dr. Henry "Indiana" Jones, Jr., which was obscured within the KGB's collection for years before passing into the Russian Federation's possession. Snapshots, sketches, press clippings, and entries recording his personal thoughts are all revealed in this volume. Softcover, 150 pp. $28.99.


The Ring CompanionThe Ring Companion
Denis Meikle
The Ring Companion examines the 1998 low budget independent movie released in Japan which was remade in America starring Naomi Watts and spawning its own sequel. This guide investigates the original novels, their adaptations in other media, and the film prequels and remakes. It places the film in context from their origins in the Gothic ghost story to the monster filled 'j-horror'. Softcover, 270 pp. $24.95.


Walking ShadowsWalking Shadows: Orson Welles, William Randolph Hearst, and Citizen Kane

John Evangelist Walsh
Walking Shadows is an arrestingly original approach to the most famous controversy of Hollywood's Golden Age. It dramatically dissects the wild, high-profile battle between newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst and famous young actor, director, and filmmaker Orson Welles over Welles' groundbreaking film Citizen Kane. Hardcover, 300 pp. $39.95.


Mary Poppins: Anything Can Happen If You Let ItMary Poppins: Anything Can Happen If You Let It

Brian Sibley & Micheal Lassell
This is an illustrated tribute to the world's favourite flying nanny, who blew in on the east wind one day, unpacked her carpetbag, and took up residence in the collective imagination of the world. The main book features her story and is divided into three sections - one for the books, one for the film, and one for the musical. Additionally, there are two seperate portfolios: one presents the inspired artwork of Tony award-winning set and costume designer Bob Crowley, and the other features dozens of colourful photographs showcasing every scene in the fully realized Broadway production. Hardcover, 107 pp. $58.00.


Andy Warhol's Blow JobAndy Warhol's Blow Job

Peter Gidal
In this important book, the influential film-maker and writer Peter Gidal shows how Andy Warhol's Blow Job is a film about film, about time, and also about mortality. Gidal places Blow Job within a history of works by artists, including Duchamp and Velazquez, that directly affect the viewer, enacting a pattern of recognition and loss that constitutes the experience of perception itself. Softcover, 86 pp. $19.95.


SuperbadSuperbad

Seth Rogen et al
The only official book tie-in to the hilarious blockbuster film, including: An introduction by producer Judd Apatow, "Mr. Vagtastic's Guide to Buying Porn", and much more! Softcover, 144 pp. $21.95.


Seven UpSeven Up

Stella Bruzzi
Seven Up began as a 1964 World in Action special about the lives of twenty children from across British society - public schoolboys to working-class girls from London's East End. Stella Bruzzi's illuminating study is the first comprehensive account of the series. It traces Seven Up's origins and production history up to 49 Up, places it within the context of the history of British documentary, and provides in-depth analysis of the programmes themselves. Interwoven into Bruzzi's account are invaluable insights from creator Michael Apted, as well as two of the "children" - Nick and Bruce. Softcover, 126 pp. $23.95.


Night MailNight Mail

Scott Anthony
Night Mail is one of the best-loved and best-known films in the canon of British documentary cinema. Bringing together the creative talents of Harry Watt, Basil Wright, W.H. Auden and Benjamin Britten, the film gave John Grierson's documentary school its first popular success. Scott Anthony's study provides a lively appreciation of this vivid, witty and often just plain eccentric masterpiece. Softcover, 96 pp. $17.95.


The Kite RunnerThe Kite Runner: A Portrait of the Marc Forster Film

David Benioff & Khaled Hosseini
Travel deep into the rural foothills of western China (near the border of Afghanistan) with renowned film director Marc Forster as he brings Khaled Hosseini's beloved novel The Kite Runner to the big screen. Here the complete screenplay is illustrated with 100 full-color photographs, drawings, and costume sketches. Hosseini contributes an original essay detailing the experience of seeing his novel come to life as reality collides with his imagination. Another essay examines the many challenges the filmmakers faced in creating a script, casting, finding locations, and shooting in one of the most remote places on earth. This beautifully designed book is sure to be treasured by millions of fans of The Kite Runner. Softcover, 160 pp. $21.95.


The Battle For BondThe Battle For Bond

Robert Sellers
The Battle for Bond unravels the untold story behind the most controversial part of the James Bond legend. A tale of bitter recriminations, betrayal, multi-million dollar lawsuits and even death. It is the fabled story of Kevin McClory's 40 year legal battle over the rights to the screen version of James Bond. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to know the truth about James Bond. Softcover, 264 pp. $22.95.


Lawrence of ArabiaLawrence of Arabia

Kevin Jackson
Beginning with an account of the extraordinary and paradoxical character of its hero's flawed genius, Kevin Jackson's study investigates not only the victories and defeats of David Lean's masterpiece but also the longer history of Lawrence of Arabia and the cinema. Softcover, 125 pp. $17.95.


Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Mark Salisbury
Produced in close co-operation with Tim Burton, this lavish, full colour hardcover official companion to the film includes over 200 photos, concept drawings and production designs, screenplay extracts and interviews with cast and crew. Foreword by Tim Burton. Hardcover, 172 pp. $36.00.


Hairspray Hairspray
David James & Diana Landau
This colourful companion book to the hit film Hairspray celebrates the phenomenon that is the big-screen adaptation of John Waters' stage musical. Features about the cast, locations, sets and costumes give readers an intimate look behind the scenes. Hardcover, 158 pp. $56.00.


The Sound of Music Companion The Sound of Music Companion
Laurence Maslon
This official companion to the world's most beloved musical includes more than 150 stunning images from the film and theatre productions, complete lyrics to favourite songs, a complete guide to the film locations and a map of Salzburg, unseen storyboards from the film, the Singalong Sound of Music phenomenon and much more!hardcover, 191 pp. $47.00.


Shrek: The Art of the QuestShrek: The Art of the Quest

Kathleen Jones
This journey into the behind-the-scenes world of Shrek includes an introduction by Julie Andrews, 300 full-colour and black-and-white illustrations and previously unpublished art from all three films, insider tales from the Dreamworks Animation team, as well as in-depth character art of all your favourites from Shrek and Donkey to Puss, Fiona, the Gingerbread Man, and Merlin. Hardcover, 300 pp. $56.00.

Cleo de 5 a 7Cleo de 5 a 7
Valerie Orpen
Cleo de 5 a 7 (1962) chronicles, in "real time," ninety minutes in the life of rising pop singer Cleo Victoire, played by Corinne Marchand. Awaiting the results of a biopsy and fearing the worst, the charismatic protagonist seeks solace from a variety of characters on a June afternoon in Paris. Valerie Orpen follows Cleo's journey, providing a fascinating exploration of the film's unusual time structure and evocative mise-en-scene, which captures so vividly the Paris of the early 1960s. Softcover, 111 pp. $29.00.

Mr. Bean's Guide To FranceMr. Bean's Guide To France
Robin Driscoll & Tony Haase
Mr. Bean's companion guide is perfect for your trip to France! Filled with photographs, and all kinds of useful travel tips, Mr. Bean has created a book of invaluable advice and guidance to would-be visitors to the land. Coil-bound, 96 pp. $24.95.


Lust, Caution Lust, Caution: Story to Screenplay

Story by Eileen Chang, Screenplay by James Schamus and Wang Hui-Ling
This official tie-in companion to Academy Award winner Ang Lees's new espionage thriller set in WW II-era Shanghai, features the original short story, the shooting script  plus a preface by Ang Lee, an essay by screenwriter/producer Schamus and a large selection of stills from the film. Softcover. $29.95.


The Star Wars VaultThe Star Wars Vault : A Scrapbook of 30 Years of Rare Memorabilia
Stephen J. Sansweet
Created with the full co-operation of Lucasfilm and covering all six movies, this is an amazing collection of behind the scenes stories, memorabilia, hand written script pages from Lucas, artists’ early sketches, slides for early special effects. This is the ultimate Star Wars fan gift. Hardcover. $99.95


The Making of Star WarsThe Making of Star Wars

J.W. Rinzler
Using his unprecedented access to the Lucasfilm archives and its trove of never before published interviews, photos, production notes, anecdotes and factoids, Star Wars scholar J.W. Rinzler hurtles readers back in time for a one-of-a-kind behind-the-scenes look at the nearly decade-long quest of George Lucas and his collaborators the little movie that became a phenomenon. Softcover, 311 pp. $44.00.


DreamgirlsDreamgirls

Bill Condon
A quarter century after first bringing Broadway audiences to their feet, the classic musical Dreamgirls has finally arrived on the silver screen, brilliantly adapted and directed by Bill Condon. This book captures the film through the extraordinary photography of David James. An introduction by Martin Gottfried recalls Michael Bennett and his legendary Broadway musical, and an essay by Cheo Hodari Coker describes the creation of Bill Condon's award-winning film. This volume contains more than 200 color stills, concept paintings, costume designs, and archival photographs, many published here for the first time. Softcover, 192 pp. $24.95.


A Good YearA Good Year: Portrait of the Film

Ridley Scott & Peter Mayle
Love, laughter, wine, and the glorious landscape of Provence are the delicious ingredients of A Good Year, directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe and Albert Finney. Scott conceived an idea for a story set among the vines; his old friend Peter Mayle turned it into a bestselling novel, and Scott now brings it to the screen. Featuring more than 130 photos and an interview with Scott and Mayle, this book captures the allure of Provence and its winemaking culture, and offers insights into the creative processes of some of our most gifted and versatile filmmakers. Softcover, 143 pp. $24.95.


It's a Wonderful Life: A Memory BookIt's a Wonderful Life: A Memory Book
Stephen Cox
It's a Wonderful Life: A Memory Book takes you behind the snowy scenes of Frank Capra's magical film starring Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore to make the story come alive in a new way. Featuring a feast of stories from cast members, this memory book explores the dark tale of Bedford Falls. Commentary from director Frank Capra, Karolyn Grimes ("Zuzu"), Todd Karns ("Harry Bailey"), Sheldon Leonard ("Nick" the bartender), and many more give the story a new sense of immediacy. There are rare, unpublished photographs, including some in full color, and recently discovered images depicting scenes that were cut from the movie, including Capra's brilliant "lost ending." Softcover, 139 pp. $17.95.


All in this Together: The Unofficial Story of High School MusicalAll in this Together: The Unofficial Story of High School Musical

Jennifer Hale
You've memorized the lyrics and know all the dance moves. Time to find out the story behind the scenes of High School Musical! The little movie about breaking free from stereotypes and being true to yourself turned into the most explosive event of the year. All in this Together offers the first look at how the movie got made, bios of the six stars - Zac Efron (Troy), Vanessa Anne Hudgens (Gabriella), Ashley Tisdale (Sharpay), Corbin Bleu (Chad), Monique Coleman (Taylor) and Lucas Grabeel (Ryan) - an exciting look at their solo careers, dozens of dull color never-before-seen photos of the cast, and an exclusive look at High School Musical 2. Softcover, 143 pp. $16.95.


The Art of BondThe Art of Bond

Laurent Bouzereau
Drawing on the spectrum of all 21 Bond films, The Art of Bond features a series of interviews with the key creative talents who have made cinematic history through the Bond franchise. The work, extensively illustrated with film stills, storyboards, posters, publicity shots, etc. also contains reflections by film-makers, screenwriters and novelists on how the Bond genre has influenced their own work. A visually stunning tribute to the creative talents of the Bond world. Hardcover, 235 pp. $48.00.


BombayBombay
Lalitha Gopalan
Lalitha Gopalan shows how Bombay stuggles to find a narrative that can reconcile communal differences. She looks in detail at the way official censors tried to change the film under the influence of powerful figures in both the Muslim and the Hindu communities. In going on to analyse the aesthetics of Bombay, she shows how themes of social and gender difference are rendered through performance, choreography, song and cinematography. This is a fascinating account of a landmark in recent Indian cinema. Softcover, 94 pp. $18.95.

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Vampyr Vampyr
David Rudkin
Vampyr Der Traum des Allan Gray (1932) is one of the founding and defining works of psychological horror cinema, adapted from Gothic stories by Sheridan Le Fanu, a disturbing narrative of vampirism, obsession and possession of the soul. But it is also a film directed by Carl Theodor Dreyer, the revered and legendary Danish director of La Passion de Jeanne d'Arc (1927). In relation to Dreyer's long but often frustrated career, Vampyr is often thought of as an uneven or disappointing film. But, according to David Rudkin, this is to misunderstand what it sets out to do, which is systematically to cut the spectator adrift in a mysterious world. In a meticulous formal analysis of Vampyr, Rudkin pinpoints the sources of the film's uniquely disquieting effect. Vampyr remains a profound and troubling artwork concerned at the last to communicate human meanings in remarkable film imagery. Softcover, 80 pp. $18.95.


The Essential It's A Wonderful LifeThe Essential It's A Wonderful Life: A Scene-by-Scene Guide to the Classic Film
Micahel Willian
This witty, intelligent companion to It's a Wonderful Life is the perfect way to revisit this timeless film with new eyes. Loaded with fresh insight into the inspirational holiday classic, this handy guide walks you through the film scene by scene. Even the most ardent fans will be delighted by the assortment of film details, cast anecdotes, curiosities, and gaffes collected here. Softcover, 142 pp. $20.95.


Rebel Without a CauseRebel Without a Cause
J. David Slocum
Five decades after the production and initial release of Rebel Without a Cause, this book examines both the complicated historical moment in which the film was made as well as its continuing and pervasive influence on film today. The contributors track how the film continues to speak to diverse audiences as a touchstone for imagined anxieties over adolescence and coming-of-age, traditional values of family and community, threats from abroad, and the provocations of mass or consumer society. Although the specific sources and motivations for rebellion have shifted, what has persisted is the film's singular power to represent rebellion in what would otherwise be seen as the everyday, and to move viewers to ponder its causes. Softcover, 273 pp. $36.95.


The History Boys: The FilmThe History Boys: The Film

Alan Bennett
An unruly bunch of bright, funny sixth-form boys in pursuit of sex, sport and a place at university. A maverick English teacher at odds with the young and shrewd supply teacher; a headmaster obsessed with results; a History teacher who thinks he's a fool. Staff room rivalry and the anarchy of adolescence provoke insistent questions about History and how you teach it; about education and its purpose. The History Boys, the screenplay, contains Alan Bennett's diary of the filming, the shooting script and an Introduction by director Nicholas Hytner, as well as an extensive plate section showing stills from the film and behind the scenes. Hardcover, 107 pp. $31.95.


The Kill Bill DiaryThe Kill Bill Diary
David Carradine
Throughout the filming of Quentin Tarantino's genre-jumping epic, David Carradine kept a daily diary capturing all the action, the genius, the madness, and the magic that combined to make Kill Bill. More than simply an insider's close-up look at the filmmaking process and the astonishing cast and crew, The Kill Bill Diary illuminates the finer points of this serious actor's craft, as we are guided through a quirky, breathtaking, no-holds-barred, and altogether miraculous filmmaking journey. Softcover, 311 pp. $21.50.


Star Wars On TrialStar Wars On Trial

David Brin & Matthew Woodring Stover
Order in the court! Droid Judge: Six films. Countless books. $20 billion in revenue. No one can question the financial value or cultural impact of the Star Wars films. But has the impact been for the good? Star Wars stands accused of elitist politics and sexism, religious and ethical lapses, the destruction of literary science fiction and science fiction film, and numerous plot holes and logical gaps. I know emotions are running high, but I want everyone to keep it civil. This is a court of law. Softcover, 386 pp. $24.95.


V for Vendetta: From Script to Film V for Vendetta: From Script to Film

The Wachowski Brothers
The full breadth of this book includes the annotated script, concept art, storyboards, costume sketches, hundreds of photos, director's commentary, film-specific graphics, released and unreleased theatrical posters, and, as a final bow to the hundreds of artisans involved in creating V for Vendetta, the full film credits. All told, this is a look at the process of V for Vendetta, from script to film. Softcover, 256 pp. $47.00.

In Search of The Third ManIn Search of The Third Man
Charles Drazin
Half a century after its opening, The Third Man remains an unquestioned masterpiece of film artistry and, for many, the greatest British movie ever made. Whether it is Harry Lime's magical first appearance, or the haunting theme music, the film contains some of the most memorable moments in screen history. In Search of The Third Man explores the many myths that over the years have grown around this extraordinary film, and seeks to unravel the facts from the fiction. Softcover, 209 pp. $26.50.

Zulu: With Some Guts Behind ItZulu: With Some Guts Behind It: The Making of the Epic Movie
Sheldon Hall
One of the best-loved and most enduringly popular British films ever made, Zulu tells the extraordinary story of the Battle of Rorke's Drift of 1879, in which barely 150 soldiers of the British Army in South Africa fought for twelve hours to defend an isolated mission station against an attack by 4,000 highly disciplined Zulu warriors. Here, for the first time, is the full story of the making of the film, based on four years of original research and dozens of new interviews with cast and crew members and their families. Hardcover, 431 pp. $65.00.

The Man From KryptonThe Man From Krypton: A Closer Look at Superman
Glenn Yeffeth
The prototypical superhero and original icon, Superman is as American as baseball and apple pie and as ubiquitous as Mickey Mouse; he's been a part of our lives for more than six decades through comic books, the small screen and feature films. Yet there is much about Superman that has never been examined -- until now. In The Man From Krypton, leading writers discuss, debate and celebrate the legend of Superman. From his politics to his underwear, his love life to his ethics, every aspect of the Man of Steel is explored with insight, humor and passion. Softcover, 229 pp. $24.95.


Modern Times: BFI Film Classics	Modern Times
BFI Film Classics
Joan Mellen
Joan Mellen situates Modern Times within the context of Chaplin's life and his work, exploring its history and influences as well as its ongoing appeal. She explores how the film's themes of oppression, industrialisation and dehumanisation are embodied in the little tramp's struggle to survive in the modern world. Softcover, 87 pp. $19.95.

The Unauthorized X-MenThe Unauthorized X-Men
Len Wein
After four decades, countless regime changes and a multitude of media incarnations, the X-Men are still on top. They've taken on not only Magneto and the Brotherhood of Mutants, and Stryker and his Sentinels, but also sexism, adolescence and discrimination and, in the process, given their fans a new way to look at the world, and at themselves. The Unauthorized X-Men takes a look at what's so uncanny, extraordinary and downright astonishing about Marvel's most popular and enduring superheroes. Softcover, 215 pp. $24.95.

Shooting WaterShooting Water
Devyani Saltzman
In February 2000, Devyani Saltzman, daughter of international award-winning filmmaker Deepa Mehta, travelled to the holy city of Benares, India, to work with her mother on Water. But after only a week of shooting, the film became the target of a series of politically-motivated attacks. Protesters destroyed the sets, burned effigies of the director, and made threats on her life. This is the transformative and inspiring story of the five-year odyssey to complete the film. Softcover, 278 pp. $26.95.

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The Blade Runner ExperienceThe Blade Runner Experience
The Legacy of a Science Fiction Classic

Will Brooker
Despite its initially lukewarm critical reception, Blade Runner has gone on to be regarded as a bonafide classic of contemporary cinema. This thought-provoking anthology of essays examines the film in a broad context, examining its relationship to the original novel, the PC game, the series of sequels, and the many films influenced by its style and themes. It investigates Blade Runner online fandom and asks how the film's future city compares to present day Los Angeles. It also revisits the film to pose surprising new questions about its characters and their world. Softcover, 250 pp. $32.95.


Brando Rides AloneBrando Rides Alone
Barry Gifford
In Brando Rides Alone, poet, novelist, and screenwriter Barry Gifford resurrects the Marlon Brando-directed western One-Eyed Jacks. Although critics panned the film upon its original release, Gifford offers an alternative analysis. He praises the film's diverse cast, beautiful coastal scenery, and epic proportions. In the process, he irreverently dismisses any distinctions between high and low art. Softcover, 102 pp. $16.50.


On The Passion of the Christ	On The Passion of the Christ
Paula Fredriksen
This book -- whose contributors include theologians, journalists, academics, and clergy from Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish traditions -- provides a wide spectrum of views on Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ. The essays consider the historical and ethical conundrums presented by the New Testament in general and by the film in particular. The contributor's discussions range from the film's theological and historical underpinnings to its cinematic and cultural implications, to the issues surrounding the millennia-long question "Who really killed Jesus?" Softcover, 281 pp. $27.95.


On The Waterfront: BFI Film Classics On The Waterfront: BFI Film Classics
Leo Braudy
With Kazan's death in 2003 and Brando's in 2004, a reappraisal of On the Waterfront is timely and necessary. In this definitive study, Leo Braudy tells the complicated story of the film's production as he examines the elements that contibute to its enduring appeal: the Method-inspired acting, the music and cinematography, the use of authentic locations and its powerfully symbolic depiction of post-war American values. Softcover, 88 pp. $16.95.


The Complete Guide to The Quiet Man	The Complete Guide to The Quiet Man
Des MacHale
As The Quiet Man celebrates it's 50th anniversary, we can confidently predict it will be around as long as there are moviegoers to watch it, a monument to the genius of John Ford, Maurice Walsh and its many stars. In the case of this western shot in the West of Ireland, we can justly say: "This is the West of Ireland -- when the legend becomes fact, print the legend! " Hardcover, 267 pp. $52.95.


King Kong Cometh!King Kong Cometh!
Paul A. Woods
This vividly illustrated compendium traces the evolution of King Kong, from his predecessors in the jungle-movie travelogues of the 1920s and 1930s to B-movie spinoffs of the legendary motion picture. Highlights include the early careers of King Kong makers Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack, the influence of Willis O'Brien's The Lost World, Edgar Wallace's original story, scream queen Fay Wray, the impact of Kong on giant monster movies, Dino de Laurentis's remake of King Kong in 1976 and, finally, commentary on the Peter Jackson remake of King Kong. Softcover, 192 pp. $26.95.


The Matrix Trilogy: Cyberpunk Reloded The Matrix Trilogy: Cyberpunk Reloded
Stacy Gillis
This is a collection of critical essays on the massive phenomenon that is the three Matrix films, including the subsequent websites, computer games and the Animatrix films. Among the topics considered are the new cyberpunk, Baudrillardian simulacra, the politics of gender and race, the femme fatale, costume, cyberculture and the body, virtual realities and special effects. Softcover, 195 pp. $32.95.

The Red ShoesThe Red Shoes
Mark Connelly
The pinnacle of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger's remarkable collaboration The Red Shoes is an intoxicating mixture of dance, music, colour and light. This, the first comprehensive book on the film, takes a fresh look at its reception by critics as well as the public, examines its aesthetic innovations, and offers new insights into the characters at the heart of the story. Mark Connelly here illuminates this startling work and the ways in which it has beguiled generations of filmmakers and audiences. Softcover, 94 pp. $21.95.

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La HaineLa Haine
Ginette Vincendeau
Released in 1995, La Haine is the black and white chronicle of 24 hours in the life of a mixed-race young male trio from a run-down Parisian suburb. It's combination of hard-hitting social expose, stylish black and white cinematography, and hip-hop culture also turned it into an enduring cult movie with younger viewers. With great style and insight, Ginette Vincendeau provides a thorough understanding of the context of the film's making, its narrative tension, stylistic sophistication and ideological ambiguity and of its extraordinary success nationally and internationally. Softcover, 118 pp. $22.00.


La Reine MargotLa Reine Margot
Julianne Pidduck
Conceived as a cinematic 'event' film, featuring the elusive star Isabelle Adjani, La Reine Margot presents a theatrical chiaroscuro Renaissance past. Julianne Pidduck goes deep into this prestigious costume film and traces the wide critical acclaim that it has received, both nationally and internationally. She also reveals how the film's cinematic spectacle of Renaissance religious intolerance offers a haunting allegory for modern French and European experience. Softcover, 112 pp. $25.50.

AlphavilleAlphaville
Chris Darke
A striking black and white hybrid of film noir and science fiction, Alphaville (1965) is now one of the most enduringly popular of Jean-Luc Godard's films of the 1960s. In this first ever exploration of Godard's masterpiece, published on the fortieth anniversary of its release, Chris Darke elucidates the film's unique combination of genres and styles and draws on new interviews with the director's collaborators to chronicle the film's production. Softcover, 114 pp. $25.50.


Beating the Devil: The Making of Night of the DemonBeating the Devil: The Making of Night of the Demon
Tony Earnshaw
Adored by film buffs and filmmakers alike, Night of the Demon is an undisputed cult classic and a timeless fan favourite. Conceived by a playwright, directed by an auteur and produced by a showman, it was and remains a winning combination of imaginative shocks and understated menace. Now, for the first time, the full background to this celebrated motion picture has been unearthed in this fascinating book from award-winning author Tony Earnshaw, who has produced the definitive guide to the movie complete with original interview material with many of the people who created it. Softcover, 127 pp. $35.00.

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Dreams and NightmaresDreams and Nightmares: Terry Gilliam, The Brothers Grimm, & other Cautionary Tales of Hollywood
Bob McCabe
Dreams and Nightmares is Bob McCabe's eyewitness account of Hollywood's movie-making practices -- reported from the set of Terry Gilliam's The Brothers Grimm. McCabe sits in on confidential meetings, speaks to the stars and stagehands, sees studio interference first-hand, and collects enough tales of Tinseltown to make the toes curl before being forcibly ejected by studio staff. Combining his own experiences with personal diaries and candid interviews with Gilliam, Matt Damon and others, he reveals exactly why it is so hard to get a movie made in today's Hollywood system. Hardcover, 296 pp. $39.95.

Mel Gibson's BibleMel Gibson's Bible
Timothy K. Beal & Tod Linafelt
Whether one is inspired or repelled by The Passion of the Christ, there can be no question that it is a defining moment in the cultural afterlife of the Bible. This volume tries to make sense of that moment and will prove to be a touchstone for adherents and detractors of the film alike. In Mel Gibson's Bible a group of esteemed scholars offer their provocative range of views on The Passion of the Christ. Softcover, 208 pp. $22.95.


Full Metal Jacket DiaryFull Metal Jacket Diary
Matthew Modine
While playing the lead role in Full Metal Jacket, actor Matthew Modine kept a detailed journal of his experiences while making the film. While a simple diary would not in itself be remarkable, these unexpurgated entries -- which offer a candid look at Stanley Kubrick's creative process -- make for fascinating reading. Complementing the text are Modine's own black & white photographs, which provide an unprecedented look at the making of a modern film classic. Hardcover, 288 pp. $44.95.


The Godfather LegacyThe Godfather Legacy
Harlan Lebo
Here is the official companion to Francis Ford Coppola's masterful trilogy, revised and updated, and packed with more than100 photographs. Featuring production records, credits, reviews, and interviews with many of the principals involved, The Godfather Legacy is a rare and vivid peek into the making of three of the most compelling films in Hollywood history. Softcover, 286 pp. $22.00.


Black NarcissusBlack Narcissus
Sarah Sweet
Now heralded as a masterpiece, Black Narcissus is a landmark film in Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger's influential canon, and remains a highlight of British, and world cinema. Enigmatic and deeply memorable, the film, based on Rumer Godde's novel about the emotional dissolution of nuns in the Himalayas, has left behind enduring images of both place and gender. This book demonstrates the films remarkable acheivements, both as a production, and a meditation on the end of an empire. Softcover, 102 pp. $21.95.

Star Wars: The Ultimate Visual Guide Star Wars: The Ultimate Visual Guide
Ryder Windham
This is the definitive companion to George Lucas's space fantasy, revealing the full story of the epic battle between good and evil a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. Packed with more than 1,000 images, including movie stills and comic-book art, this is the must-have book for all Star Wars fans. Hardcover, $32.99.

Kingdom of HeavenKingdom of Heaven
The Ridley Scott Film and the History Behind the Story

Diane Landau
This gorgeous companion book, illustrated with more than 200 photos, drawings, and Ridley Scott's own storyboards, documents every side of this landmark production: the massive sets, the fabulous costumes, the period weapons, and the depiction of medieval warefare on a scale never before seen. But it also delves into the details of storycrafting that give Kingdom of Heaven its solid historical grounding, and features a lively primer on the Crusades that will expand readers' appeciation of the film and the history behind it. Softcover, 176 pp. $26.95.

The Jaws LogThe Jaws Log
30th Anniversary Edition

Carl Gottlieb
The Jaws Log is the ultimate "making-of" book. Originally published at the time of the film's release, the story of how a 28-year-old Steven Spielberg transformed Peter Benchley's #1 best-selling novel into the classic motion picture has sold more than 2 million paperback copies. Now, on the occasion of the movie's 30th Anniversary, the book is being made available in hardcover for the time ever, with a new forward by author Carl Gottlieb. Hardcover, 224 pp. $19.95.

Live Fast, Die YoungLive Fast, Die Young
In Live Fast, Die Young, the complete story behind the groundbreaking film Rebel Without a Cause is revealed, vividly evoking the cataclysmic meeting of actors James Dean, Natalie Wood and Sal Mineo and director Nicholas Ray. Through interviews with surviving members of the cast and crew and first hand access to both personal and studio archives, Lawrence Frascella and Al Weisel depict the explosive making of Rebel Without a Cause, complete with never-before-seen photos by famed Dean photographer Dennis Stock. A fascinating look behind the scenes of an unforgettable American film, Live Fast, Die Young tells a story that is as provocative as the film itself. Softcover, 372 pp. $19.99.

The Usual SuspectsBFI Modern Classics The Usual Suspects
BFI Modern Classics

Ernest Larsen
Originally released in 1995, to mixed critical reviews, The Usual Suspects has gone on to amass a considerable reputation as a bonafide cult classic. Ernest Larsen looks at the film anew and, in a wide-ranging study, he examines the film's sophisticated narrative structure and the new spin it puts on genre conventions and themes. The result is a fascinating account of a film whose technical accomplishment and fine ensemble acting have made it an undisputed modern classic of American cinema. Softcover, 95 pp. $19.95.

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Last modified August 21, 2010.
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