1. It is a competant tool for references and dip-ins

2. It has a spell binding reputation

3. It is written by Thompson and Bordwell

However, since only one of those three good points is directly linked to the ingredience of the book it becomes obvious that reputation preceeds content.

Dull, patronising and only occassionally worthy of underlining, this book is a thorn in the side of film studies.

But that is only my opinion.


not much better out there   February 14, 2000
 1 out of 3 found this review helpful

what can i saw if u r a budding film student this book is simply a must

no exceptions u simply must buy this book

one criticism though well two actually , firstly a touch expensive and secondly it aint got quite enough of the old colour pics

other than that though top stuff


How to get a Degree by not working.   May 7, 1998
 3 out of 4 found this review helpful

Way back when I went to University in dear old Blighty. My degree was Film,Tv and Radio Studies, and despite my total lack of application, or to be frank attendance, I graduated with honours and a unhealthy infatuation with Wine, Women and Song. There are two reasons why I graduated, 1 I have the ability to retain information, 2 Film Art by Boardwell and Thompson. Quite frankly the best text book in the history of further education. It is simple enough for the most inexperienced of students, but also it's depth and coverage is enough to give a basic foundation in the most complex of film theory. God bless you Boardwell & Thompsen, and if anyone out there wants both a degree and liver problems as a result of University, BUY THIS BOOK


This book covers the basics with a lot of pictures   March 25, 1998
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

I found this book to be a an interesting and
informative look at the history of films.
Well, to be honest, it has lots of pictures
and makes good use of them. If you love film,
you'll love this book.