Screen Epiphanies Review

• 1st Apr 2011

We have had books similar to this in the past where Directors are interviewed about their influences – what is impressive here is the sheer volume and range of directors. Big Screen directors from all round the world have been taken to task here.

The general rule seems to be what one film influenced you into becoming a film-maker.  But rules are meant to be broken as in some cases they cite many films (which in essence is only fair) – But the author here tries to keep the in depth analysis from each director remaining focussed on a singular feature and what about it really spoke to them as a viewer and eventually as a film maker.

It is nice to read about Directors talking about other directors, but also some of the other artists involved in the making of a film. While we fully expect direction and cinematography to be the main speaking point for any director’s passion there are other bases covered. But of course this varies from person to person – and this book has a wide variety out there of today’s film makers talking about past film makers worldwide.

Naturally this is for fans of directors – and it isn’t in any way a bad buy for those interested. And the names range from Scorsese, Boyle, Frears, Minghella, Darabont, Parker, Leigh, Schrader…and then some!

Despite the impressive cast call here there are still so many out there that we may ponder about – and there is no reason why we couldn’t have a series that lets us into more of the minds of the many other film makers out there.

Steven Hurst