From Library Journal
Harvey argues that Minnelli deserves a place in the pantheon of American feature directors alongside Ford, Hitchcock, Welles, et al. Film history, according to Harvey, associate curator of the Museum of Modern Art's Department of Film, has slighted Minnelli because of his long career under MGM contract (1940-66). Scholars usually cast the restraints of the studio system as the major antagonist of the serious director. Therefore the cogency of Minnelli's personal style has either been missed altogether or (wrongly) surmised to be simply more of the stylish extravagance endemic to the "majors." Destined to reign as the definitive study of Minnelli's work because of its ebullient engrossment in detail and historical gestalt, this is also the first major monograph devoted to the topic. On a scale rivaling an erotic reverie in dance by Minnelli, Harvey's mellifluous tribute has great appeal. Essential for all film collections.
- Robert Rayher, Sch. of the Art Inst. of Chicago
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
- Robert Rayher, Sch. of the Art Inst. of Chicago
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
