Film has always been a popular medium for storytelling, and it’s no surprise that there are a plethora of books, podcasts, and other media that delve into the world of film. From behind-the-scenes accounts of classic movies to in-depth analyses of contemporary blockbusters, these resources offer a wealth of information for cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best film-related books, podcasts, and other media out there and see what sets them apart from the rest.
One book that stands out in the world of film criticism is “The Invisible Man: Hollywood and the Unseen Factor in American Film,” by film historian and critic David Thomson. Thomson takes a unique approach to analyzing the role of the unseen in film, exploring how the invisible elements of a movie – such as lighting, sound design, and editing – can shape our perception of a film’s story and characters. With incisive insight and a clear love for the medium, Thomson offers a fresh perspective on the art of cinema that will appeal to film buffs and casual readers alike.
For a more comprehensive look at the history of film, “Film History: An Introduction” by Kristin Thompson and David Bordwell is a must-read. This comprehensive text covers the evolution of film from the earliest days of cinema to the present, offering a wealth of information on the major players, movements, and technological advancements that have shaped the medium. With a clear and engaging writing style, Thompson and Bordwell make the history of film accessible and engaging for readers of all levels of expertise.
Podcasts are another great way to dive deeper into the world of film, and there are a number of excellent podcasts out there that offer in-depth discussions of movies and the film industry. One of the best is “The Film Comment Podcast,” which features interviews with filmmakers, critics, and other industry insiders, as well as roundtable discussions on a variety of film-related topics. Hosted by Film Comment magazine editor-in-chief Nicolas Rapold, the podcast offers a smart and engaging look at the world of film that will appeal to cinephiles and casual listeners alike.
Another great film podcast is “The Movie Geeks United!” show, hosted by Kevin Smith and Scott Mosier. Smith and Mosier, both longtime film aficionados, bring their passion and knowledge of movies to the show, offering in-depth discussions of classic and contemporary films, as well as interviews with filmmakers and actors. Whether you’re a hardcore cinephile or just looking for some interesting movie recommendations, “The Movie Geeks United!” is a must-listen.
For a more lighthearted look at the world of film, “How Did This Get Made?” is a must-listen. Hosted by comedians Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas, the show features discussions of some of the most bizarre and poorly-received movies in history, as well as interviews with the filmmakers and actors involved in them. Whether you’re a fan of so-bad-they’re-good movies or just looking for a good laugh, “How Did This Get Made?” is a delightfully entertaining listen.
In addition to books and podcasts, there are a number of other media outlets that offer in-depth coverage of the film industry. One such outlet is Film Comment, a magazine that has been covering the world of film for over 50 years. With in-depth interviews, reviews, and analysis of both classic and contemporary films, Film Comment is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of cinema.
Another great resource for film lovers is Rotten Tomatoes, a website that aggregates reviews from film and television critics to provide a summary of the overall critical reception for a particular work. It is a popular destination for moviegoers and industry professionals alike, as it provides a convenient way to see what critics are saying about a particular film or television show. The website features a “Tomatometer” score, which is calculated based on the percentage of positive reviews for a work. Rotten Tomatoes is known for its comprehensive coverage of film and television, and is often cited as a go-to source for movie and TV recommendations.
