From Booklist
Science fiction movies are enjoying an upsurge of popularity. In large part, the strength of those films rests on the directors because oftentimes the actors are not top-name idols. Instead, the action, message, and special effects must carry the show. This volume discusses the professional work of 83 sci-fi film directors. Fischer's
Hor ror Film Directors, 1931-1990 (1991) complements this reference work; directors such as John Carpenter and Roger Corman are not included here because they are covered in the earlier volume.
Fischer pulls from his lifelong fascination and writing in the field to choose and discuss his favorites. He covers directors such as Terry Gilliam and Steven Spielberg, who have contributed significantly to the sci-fi genre, even if they have directed more mainstream pictures. He also covers some lesser-known figures (e.g., Antonio Margheriti and Fred Sears), as well as newcomers (e.g., Mick Garris and Brian Yuzna).Most are from the U.S., but a few European and Asian directors are mentioned.
Following an introductory history of sci-fi films, entries are arranged alphabetically and vary in length from 1 page to 35 pages (for Spielberg).A list of each director's works introduces the entry, followed by a biography. Film and television series are described in terms of plot and production. Even a director's non-sci-fi movies are covered. Commentary about style or approach is kept to a minimum. A few black-and-white pictures help break up the text. Appendixes provide a discussion of nongenre directors' classic sci-fi films (e.g., Forbidden Planet , Invasion of the Body Snatchers , The Truman Show) and a list of the 100 most popular sci-fi films (based on the Internet Movie Database Team).A bibliography of research sources and an index conclude the volume.
Writing is anecdotal, giving the impression of an insider's view. Readers at the high-school level and above will enjoy the behind-the-scenes stories of the famous sci-fi movies and seminal series of the genre. This very personal work is a good addition to the field. REVWR
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Product Description
This enormous and exhaustive reference book has entries on every major and minor director of science fiction films from the inception of cinema (circa 1895) through 1998. For each director there is a complete filmography including television work, a career summary, a critical assessment, and behind-the-scenes production information. Seventy-nine directors are covered in especially lengthy entries and a short history of the science fiction film genre is also included.
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