Clint Eastwood (b. 1930) is the only popular American dramatic star to have shaped his own career almost entirely through films of his own producing; frequently under his own direction; no other dramatic star has directed himself so often. He is also one of the most prolific active directors; with thirty-three features to his credit since 1971.As a star; he is often recalled primarily for two early roles--the "Man with No Name" of three European-made Westerns; and the uncompromising cop "Dirty" Harry Callahan. But on his own as a director; Eastwood has steered a remarkable course. A film industry insider who works through the established Hollywood system and respects its traditions; he remains an outsider by steadfastly refusing to heed cultural and aesthetic trends in film production and film style. His films as director have examined an eclectic variety of themes; ranging from the artists life to the nature of heroism; while frequently calling into question the ethos of masculinity and his own star image. Yet they have remained accessible to a popular audience worldwide. With two Best Director and two Best Picture Oscars to his credit; Eastwood now ranks among the most highly honored living filmmakers.These interviews range over the more than four decades of Eastwoods directorial career; with an emphasis on practical filmmaking issues and his philosophy as a filmmaker. Nearly a third are from European sources--several appearing here in English for the first time.
#1618323 in eBooks 2012-10-26 2012-10-26File Name: B00A3S748K
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. some gems; some roughsBy ArnoldI admit Ive only read the first half of this book because Im more a fan of Fraggles and Dark Crystal than the other franchises. However; Ill share my thoughts on what I read.Like most edited volumes; this book is a mixed bag. The essays that really stand out are the ones that push the boundaries of our understanding of Hensons work. I thought the Fraggle essays were overall great. The one on gender identity was probably the best. It forced me to think about the subtle ways in which the Fraggles was actually quite revolutionary. The authors point out that some of the male Fraggles act in traditionally feminine ways; such as doing laundry (Boober) or emotional (Wembly); while the females like Red are athletic and bol. It also is a good guide for how artists should use popular culture to promote gender equality; i.e. not simply showing "macho" females but also "domesticated" males.The Dark Crystal essays were a bit less interesting. I felt that there was too much discussion of the already existing sources on the movie; including Frouds "World of the Dark Crystal" and making-of documentaries; and less value-added. Im sure for people who havent delved into those sources these essays will really add to your enjoyment of the movie; but Id already devoured them so there was little in these essays I hadnt come across.Overall; its not a bad book; particularly for Fraggle fans. Itll really make you want to watch the Fraggles all over again. I just wish the Kindle version were a bit cheaper.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Min F.Thanks