Comedy is one of the most popular forms in film. But what exactly is film comedy and what might be the basis of its widespread appeal? This book takes a multi-perspective approach to answering these questions.
Addresses the stylistic, industrial, and socio-historical contexts of the New Hollywood cinema, identifying its distinctive characteristics and its points of similarity with the Hollywood of the past. Topics include the industrial context to the blockbuster format of contemporary Hollywood; the frameworks of authorship, genre, and stardom through which New Hollywood films have been produced and consumed; and the growing importance of small screen media to the overall economy of Hollywood. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR.
Want to beat your sales target? Buy this book. The new edition of this highly successful sales bible is full of practical tips, tricks and advice and now comes in a smaller, more accessible package. The Secrets of Selling, 2nd edition covers all the key areas in a concise and snappy style and is easy to navigate - essential features for the time pressured modern sales professional. It covers the full range of situations that sales people at all levels will encounter, from how to size up your prospective client quickly, to the best time to mention your price. It has a genuinely practical approach - providing you with the tips, tricks and techniques that will help you improve your sales performance. This new edition has been completely revised and updated throughout. Key changes include:. Summaries, in the form of checklists included at each of the three sections. A chapter on Body Language, including new information on how to spot lying. New information on icebreakers in meetings.
The independent sector has produced many of the most distinctive films to have appeared in the US in recent decades. From 'Sex, Lies and Videotape' in the 1980s to 'The Blair Witch Project' and New Queer Cinema in the 1990s and the ultra-low budget digital video features of the 2000s, indie films have thrived, creating a body of work that stands out from the dominant Hollywood mainstream. But what exactly is 'independent' cinema? This, the first book to examine the question in detail, argues that independence can be defined partly in industry terms but also according to formal and aesthetic strategies and by distinctive attitudes towards social and political issues, suggesting that independence is a dynamic rather than a fixed quality. Chapters focus on distribution and relationships with Hollywood studios; narrative ('Clerks' and 'Slacker' to 'Pulp Fiction', 'Magnolia' and 'Memento') and other formal dimensions (from 'Blair Witch's' 'authenticity' to expressive and stylized camerawork and editing in work from Harmony Korine to the Coen brothers); approaches to genre and alternative socio-political visions.
Elusive, subtle and atmospheric, Lost in Translation was one of the indie hits of 2004, earning widespread critical praise, awards and success at the box office. But what was the basis of its appeal and how exactly is the film marked as a distinctly independent work? This book, by a leading authority on contemporary American indie cinema, provides an in-depth analysis of the balance of more and less mainstream qualities offered by the film at all levels, from industrial factors such as funding, marketing and release strategy to formal qualities such as its low-key narrative structure and the impressionistic use of imagery and music. Other issues examined in detail include the role of stardom, particularly the role of Bill Murray, the distinctive 'auteur' contribution made by writer-director Sofia Coppola and the film's ambiguous relationship with the romantic comedy genre. Textual and industrial analysis is also supplemented by consideration of online responses to the film that offer insights into the various ways in which it was either appreciated or rejected by viewers.Key Features* A unique attempt to pin down the precise nature of the film and its appeal toviewers* A major contribution to our understanding of the contemporary American indie film landscape* Written by a leading authority on American indie film
An original and wide-ranging study of the mappings used to impose meaning on the world, Mapping Reality argues that maps create rather than merely represent the ground on which they rest. Distinctions between map and territory questioned by some theorists of the postmodern have always been arbitrary. From the history of cartography to the mappings of culture, sexuality and nation, Geoff King draws on an extensive range of materials, including mappings imposed in the colonial settlement of America, the Cold War, Vietnam and the events since the collapse of the Soviet bloc. He argues for a deconstruction of the opposition between map and territory to allow dominant mappings to be challenged, their contours redrawn and new grids imposed.
Art cinema occupies a space in the film landscape that is accorded a particular kind of value. From films that claim the status of harsh realism to others which embody aspects of the tradition of modernism or the poetic, art cinema encompasses a variety of work from across the globe. But how is art cinema positioned in the film marketplace, or by critics and in academic analysis? Exactly what kinds of cultural value are attributed to films of this type and how can this be explained? This book offers a unique analysis of how such processes work, including the broader cultural basis of the appeal of art cinema to particular audiences. Geoff King argues that there is no single definition of art cinema, but a number of distinct and recurrent tendencies are identified. At one end of the spectrum are films accorded the most 'heavyweight' status, offering the greatest challenges to viewers. Others mix aspects of art cinema with more accessible dimensions such as uses of popular genre frameworks and 'exploitation' elements involving explicit sex and violence. Including case studies of key figures such as Michael Haneke, Pedro Almodóvar and Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, this is a crucial contribution to understanding both art cinema itself and the discourses through which its value is established.
What is the appeal of the contemporary Hollywood blockbuster? The sheer scale and impact of big special effects sequences is part of the attraction of films such as Independence Day, Jurassic Park, Titanic or Mission Impossible. But they also offer other appeals, including the dynamics of narrative. Spectacular Narratives is the first serious book-length treatment of the contemporary blockbuster, including the digital-effects-based spectacle, space fictions, the action film, war spectaculars, the recent wave of disaster movies and films evoking new technologies such as virtual reality. Consideration is also given to the impact of profitable spin-offs such as film-related theme park rides and computer games. Geoff King argues against the view that an emphasis on the spectacular has led to an erosion of the importance of narrative in Hollywood. Instead, he suggests, even the most spectacular and effects-led contemporary blockbuster offers a blend of appeals, mixing elements of spectacle and narrative. Narrative is explored at the levels of both linear story-telling and underlying thematic patterns, a particular emphasis being placed on the persistence of elements of the myth/ideology of the American frontier. Close textual analysis is combined with consideration of the industrial and social contexts of contemporary Hollywood in a readable, original and rewarding book on the cinema that dominates markets across the globe.
What defines 'quality' in contemporary Hollywood film? Although often seen as inhospitable to such work, the studios of the blockbuster-franchise era continue to produce features that make claims to higher status. Films such as The Social Network, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford and Mystic River are marked as distinctive from the mainstream norm. But how exactly, and how are such qualities mixed with more familiar Hollywood ingredients, as found in larger doses in other examples such as Blood Diamond and the blockbuster-scale Inception? Quality Hollywood is the first book to address these issues, featuring close analysis of case study films, critical responses and the wider notions of cultural value on which these draw. Geoff King argues that such films retain a presence as a minority strand of studio output. The reasons for this combine factors relating to economics, the power of certain filmmakers and Hollywood's investment in its own prestige.
This book charts the dimensions of one of the most popular genres in the cinema. From lurid comic-book blockbusters to dark dystopian visions, science fiction is seen as both a powerful cultural barometer of our times and the product of particular industrial and commercial frameworks. The authors outline the major themes of the genre, from representations of the mad scientist and computer hacker to the relationship between science fiction and postmodernism, exploring issues such as the meaning of special effects and the influence of science fiction cinema on the entertainment media of the digital age. Over one hundred films are discussed and the book concludes with an extensive case study of Star Wars I: The Phantom Menace.
How do we understand types of cinema that offer experiences of discomfort, awkwardness or disquieting uncertainty? This book examines a number of examples of such work at the heart of contemporary art and indie film. While the commercial mainstream tends to offer comforting viewing experiences or moments of discomfort that exist largely to be overcome The Cinema of Discomfort analyses films in which discomfort is offered in a sustained manner. Cinema of this kind confronts us with material such as distinctly uncomfortable sexual encounters. It invites us into uncertain relationships with awkward and sometimes unlikable characters. It presents us with challenging behaviour or what are presented as uncomfortable realities. It often refuses information on which to base judgments. More discomfortingly, cinema of this kind tends to provoke uncertainty at the level of what emotional responses we are encouraged to have towards difficult, sometimes controversial, characters or events. The Cinema of Discomfort examines a number of case-studies, including Palindromes by Todd Solondz (US) and Dogtooth from Yorgos Lanthimos (Greece), along with other examples from Austria, Sweden, the UK, the US and Germany. Offering close textual analysis of the manner in which discomfort is generated, it also asks how we should understand the appeal of such work to certain viewers and how the existence of films of this kind can be explained, as products of both their socio-cultural context and the more particular institutional realms of art and indie film.
The full text downloaded to your computer With eBooks you can: search for key concepts, words and phrases make highlights and notes as you study share your notes with friends eBooks are downloaded to your computer and accessible either offline through the Bookshelf (available as a free download), available online and also via the iPad and Android apps. Upon purchase, you'll gain instant access to this eBook. Time limit The eBooks products do not have an expiry date. You will continue to access your digital ebook products whilst you have your Bookshelf installed. Everything you need to help you find the right name for your baby. More than just an alphabetical list of popular names, Brilliant Baby Names is the ultimate guide to naming your baby. Whether you’re seeking advice about how to choose a name, looking for inspiration in finding the perfect name or need help in handling disagreements or family expectations, this book can help.
[Ryman] has not so much created as revealed a world in which the promise of redemption takes seed even in horror."—The Boston Globe “Sweeping and beautiful. . . . The complex story tears the veil from a hidden world.”—The Sunday Times “Inordinately readable . . . extraordinary in its detail, color and brutality.”—The Independent "Ryman has crafted a solid historical novel with an authentic feel for both ancient and modern Cambodia." —Washington DC City Paper “Another masterpiece by one of the greatest fiction writers of our time.”—Kim Stanley Robinson "Ryman's knack for depicting characters; his ability to tell multiple, interrelated stories; and his knowledge of Cambodian history create a rich narrative that looks at Cambodia's "killing fields" both recent and ancient and Buddhist belief with its desire for transcendence. Recommended for all literary fiction collections." —Library Journal Archeologist Luc Andrade discovers an ancient Cambodian manuscript inscribed on gold leaves but is kidnapped—and the manuscript stolen—by a faction still loyal to the ideals of the brutal Pol Pot regime. Andrade’s friends, an ex-Khmer Rouge agent and a young motoboy, embark on a trek across Cambodia to rescue him. Meanwhile, Andrade, bargaining for his life, translates the lost manuscript for his captors. The result is a glimpse into the tremendous and heart-wrenching story of King Jayavarman VII: his childhood, rise to power, marriage, interest in Buddhism, and the initiation of Cambodia’s golden age. As Andrade and Jayavarman’s stories interweave, the question becomes whether the tale of ancient wisdom can bring hope to a nation still suffering from the violent legacy of the last century. Geoff Ryman is the author of the novels Air (winner of Arthur C Clarke and James Tiptree awards) and The Unconquered Country (a World Fantasy Award winner). Canadian by birth, he has lived in Cambodia and Brazil and now teaches creative writing at the University of Manchester in England.
Translate calls the artist to reject institutional subservience and form part of a living artistic community. Jacques Ellul warns us that if we pursue the methods of propaganda, we will become like any other ideology and lose the essence of our faith. Do we collaborate with the powerful? Can we resist the temptation to conform to the spirit of the age, so that we can transform a fractured, disintegrated culture?
An update of a classic student text unlocking the mystery of veterinary neurology and neuroanatomy King's Applied Anatomy of the Central Nervous System of Domestic Mammals, Second Edition is an ideal introduction for those with no prior knowledge of the central nervous system. Presented in a logical and accessible manner, readers can quickly comprehend the essential principles of how the central nervous system is constructed, the way it works and how to recognise damaged components. By blending descriptive anatomy with clinical neurology, the text offers a unique approach – explaining the structure and function of the central nervous system while highlighting the relevance to clinical practice. Revised and updated to cover the latest clinical developments, this second edition includes additional content on electrodiagnostic methods, stem cell transplantation and advanced imaging. The book also comes with a companion website featuring self-assessment questions, label the diagram exercises, and downloadable figures to aid further learning. An excellent introductory text for veterinary students, King's Applied Anatomy of the Central Nervous System of Domestic Mammals, Second Edition is also an invaluable reference for trainee veterinary neurology specialists as well as veterinary practitioners with a particular interest in neurology.
Discover a unique approach of combining descriptive anatomy with clinical information on the abdomen and pelvis of domestic mammals King’s Applied Anatomy of the Abdomen and Pelvis of the Domestic Mammals delivers a thorough and accessible exploration of the abdominal and pelvic anatomy of domestic animals in a clinically relevant style. Designed as a refresher for veterinary students beginning to engage in clinical procedures, the book uses clinical illustration to teach the essential principles of how the abdomen and pelvis of domestic mammals are constructed. It covers core topics such as: Thorough introductions to the body wall, the mesenteries and ligaments of the abdomen and pelvis, and the gastrointestinal tract Explorations of the liver and the pancreas, the spleen and abdominal lymphatics, and the biology of digestion Practical discussions of the autonomic and somatic nerves of the abdomen and pelvis and the male and female reproductive organs Treatments of laparotomy and diagnostic imaging of the abdomen and pelvis Perfect for veterinary students studying anatomy, King’s Applied Anatomy of the Abdomen and Pelvis of the Domestic Mammals will also be useful to practicing veterinary practitioners, students of veterinary nursing, and people studying animal science and related disciplines.
Dante Waugh's biography of his Grandpa, Geoff Waugh, written by Dante at age 12 in Grade 7. He describes his Grandpa's life and work including teaching leaders in Australia, Papua New Guinea and in many other countries.
They believed them to be primitive, they deemed them immoral, they thought them barbaric? they called them The Nutters. Two hundred years after the collapse of the global economy, most of Britain has become a wild and lawless forest. Safe in Nootopia 18, Cola Domingo witnesses something that causes him to question the apparent perfection of his society. Little does he know, his attempts to discover the truth will force him into the domain of the Nutters? Meanwhile, sixteen-year-old Cherry awaits the birth of her baby in the comfort of the gro-labs. When a fellow expectant disappears, she sets out to investigate. Through the characters? physical and emotional journeys, the underlying narrative questions the ethics of society and dilemmas of the human condition, whilst maintaining a compelling plot with intrigue and mystery at its heart.
This book explores how communities, stakeholder groups and policy makers have thought about people with mental and physical impairments between the nineteenth and twenty-first centuries. At a time when new thinking is desperately needed our book argues that this can only be delivered through a wider, more diverse and (above all) historically informed debate about the nature and meaning of mental and physical impairment. For us, history is the key to a welfare future.
An update of a classic student text unlocking the mystery of veterinary neurology and neuroanatomy King's Applied Anatomy of the Central Nervous System of Domestic Mammals, Second Edition is an ideal introduction for those with no prior knowledge of the central nervous system. Presented in a logical and accessible manner, readers can quickly comprehend the essential principles of how the central nervous system is constructed, the way it works and how to recognise damaged components. By blending descriptive anatomy with clinical neurology, the text offers a unique approach – explaining the structure and function of the central nervous system while highlighting the relevance to clinical practice. Revised and updated to cover the latest clinical developments, this second edition includes additional content on electrodiagnostic methods, stem cell transplantation and advanced imaging. The book also comes with a companion website featuring self-assessment questions, label the diagram exercises, and downloadable figures to aid further learning. An excellent introductory text for veterinary students, King's Applied Anatomy of the Central Nervous System of Domestic Mammals, Second Edition is also an invaluable reference for trainee veterinary neurology specialists as well as veterinary practitioners with a particular interest in neurology.
This book focuses on key formal aspects of video games and the experiences and pleasures offered by the activities they require of the player. A wide range of games are considered, from first-person shooters to third-person action-adventures, strategy, sports-related and role-playing games. Lively and accessible in style, this book is written for both an academic readership and the wider audience of gamers and those interested in popular culture.
Unfolding out of the events of "THRONE OF ATLANTIS" comes a mystery that sends Aquaman to the ends of the Earth to solve an ancient murder--one that will reveal a horrific truth about Arthur Curry and threaten those closest to him today. Also, as the Scavenger compiles more Atlantean weaponry and artifacts, Aquaman enlists the aid of The Others to help find one missing relic in the Southwestern United States before his enemies can get to it and possess untold power. Collects issues #17-19, #21-25 of the monthly series.
The independent sector has produced many of the most distinctive films to have appeared in the US in recent decades. From 'Sex, Lies and Videotape' in the 1980s to 'The Blair Witch Project' and New Queer Cinema in the 1990s and the ultra-low budget digital video features of the 2000s, indie films have thrived, creating a body of work that stands out from the dominant Hollywood mainstream. But what exactly is 'independent' cinema? This, the first book to examine the question in detail, argues that independence can be defined partly in industry terms but also according to formal and aesthetic st.
Thank you for visiting our website. Would you like to provide feedback on how we could improve your experience?
This site does not use any third party cookies with one exception — it uses cookies from Google to deliver its services and to analyze traffic.Learn More.