Description:
In today's era of corporate concept movies marketed to the coveted 18-to-39-year-old white male demographic, it is easy to think of films as being made largely by and for men. If you're looking for an alternative to whining about this situation, The St. James Women Filmmakers Encyclopedia is a heartening examination of just how much women have contributed to the cinema. This fascinating and expansive book covers not just female directors but also writers, producers, editors, and designers who have had an impact in the film world. The Encyclopedia is also refreshingly culture blind, giving Hong Kong director Ann Hui and Senegalese writer-director Safi Faye as much space as Jodie Foster or Lina Wertmüller. Not merely a rah-rah-look-what-we-gals-can-do bit of fluff, each entry is treated to a serious examination of influences and career, bringing up noteworthy flaws as well as highlights. While certainly edifying to read straight through, the greatest pleasure this book offers is to the browser, hopping from a discussion of the controversial career and alliances of Leni Riefenstahl to a look at Mae West's scandalous self-written scripts. With its comprehensive coverage of everyone from Hollywood powerhouses to people you've never heard of (unless you really pay attention to credits), The St. James Women Filmmakers Encyclopedia is a welcome addition to any film fan's bookshelf. --Ali Davis
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