Woody Allen on Woody Allen

Having read the vast array of literature on Woody Allen, I must conclude Stig Bjorkman's biography is a must-have for any self-professed Woody Allen fan. This book is a major page-turner offering great insight on Allen as a director/writer/actor, without disgressing into things (tidbits on his personal life, albeit juicy) that are really of little significance in the understanding and evaluation of this talented and prolific artist.

It is a relief to read a film book that refuses to degenerate in to the psycho-speculative ramblings of a [...] filmmaker. This book has the feel of a comfortable conversation with one of the most private 'celebrities' of this century. In an age where selling out is the great commodity, it is refreshing to hear from a man who has simply and steadily built an astonishing succession of low budget films. This book gives one intriguing glimpses into the 'Woody Allen' aesthetic, from his love of rain to his early days as a stand-up comic. If you're looking for dirt on his private life, don't bother, but if you're looking for an understanding of process and his distinctive viewpoint, then this is the book for you.

A thoroughly engrossing interview book which takes the reader film by film through Woody's career. If you're a fan of his work, it is essential reading. There are many fascinating responses and lots of interesting trivia which may surprise the most avid of fans. (For example, Woody's 1987 film "September" was originally shot in its entirely with a completely different cast. It was later recast, reshot and re-edited.)If you really want to read an in depth and intelligent conservation about the entire process of filmmaking from inception to completion, check out this book. Woody is very frank, candid and let's you take a glance inside his restless and constantly creative mind.

I no longer have to dream what it would be like to have a conversation with Woody Allen. What an intellect. He makes many references to literature, movies, especially foreign films and artists that he loves. These works are now on my must see and read list. I loved learning the behind the scenes details of his movies, but now I wish someone would write a book about his personal philosophies of life. I find his religious, socio-political ideas rivoting, provoking, and unique. The book provides a glimpse into the workings of the inner mind of a genius.My only complaint is that it wasn't longer.

If you're more interested in form, craft and function than all the meaningless drivel pumped out in the popular press, then this book is for you. Bjorkman is knowledgable and unpretentious and Allen comes off as being much more self-aware and diligent than one might previously have thought.