History of Film

There are lots of books out there on the history of film, however, there are those that hit the mark quite above others. The History of Film is one of those books. David Parkinsons comprehensive book on the history of film is not only a great introduction, but also acts as a great reference or study guide. One of Thames and Hudsons World of Art series, printed on heavy smooth stock paper with color and black and white photos, one is sure to appreciate the wuality of this book. Beginning at the dawn of cinema with primitive snap-shot like cameras, with the advent of film from glass or discs, into the 20's where cinema was changed forever. There, the greats are born: Eisenstein, Griffith, Pudovkin, Porter, Lang, and so many others who contributed, not only to the art of cinema, but to the science of cinema. Once this is established, theories of film rush in and a wide variety of culture is brought forth upon the world with different forms of narrative. From Jules and Jim to Seventh Seal to Olympia to 2001: A Space Odyssey to Taxi Driver; Bergman, Kubrick, Kurosawa, Capra, Scorsese, Hitchcock, Chaplin, Huston, and Fellini. Discussing critics points of view, filmmakers take on the how the films were made as well as the influences that they would have on society and the film world itself catapulting into the blockbuster film that we have today. Also bringing out how the studios were created and who were involved in the ownership. How they broke up and how Hollywood is run today. I totally enjoyed this book and found it was well written, informative in every way. The history was kept clear despite unavoidable overlapping in time. Highly reccomended to the film student!