John Carpenter is a seminal figure in the history of horror and science fiction filmmaking, whose work in these genres has been highly influential in their ongoing development. This book comprises essays that address the whole of his work as well as those that focus on a smaller number of key films. The collection draws upon the analysis of an international group of expert scholars; some take on wide-ranging issues such as Carpenter’s approach to remakes and the question of genre itself, while others focus on a specific theme or technical aspect of Carpenter’s filmmaking. Includes coverage of Assault on Precinct 13, Halloween, Escape From New York, Christine, Escape From L.A., The Fog, The Thing and Village of the Damned. The book also includes an exclusive interview with John Carpenter.

Ian Conrich is Senior Lecturer in Film Studies at the University of Surrey Roehampton. David Woods is Senior Lecturer in Media and Cultural Studies at Nottingham Trent University.

October 2004
224 pages
978-1-904764-14-4 (pbk) £16.99
978-1-904764-15-1 (hbk) £45.00


view contents


chapter samples
List of Contributors
Introduction


reviews
‘Providing a lucid account of the cultural, technical and industrial
influences on his work, these essays also offer a comprehensive, up-to-date range of approaches to Carpenter’s films: from his employment of genre to his themes, representations of gender, collaborations and the issue of his placement in cinema.’
Linda Badley, Middle Tennessee State University

‘John Carpenter’s oeuvre has long been one that contradictorily contests
and confirms notions of genre and auteurism. With fresh perspectives and keen insight Conrich and Woods have assembled an impressive, cogent collection of authoritative writing on this most underrated and neglected of contemporary American filmmakers.’
Mick Broderick, Murdoch University, Western Australia

'The Directors' Cuts series adds to its roster of studies on the great helmers of the horror new wave with an analysis of arguably the greatest of them all. After an exploration of the nature of genre, the writers identify the structural tensions that beset his films, eschewing any attempt to seek a unified narrative in his output, instead focusing on his motifs. The essays reveal Carpenter's early creative, as well as his technical, excellence.'
BOOK OF THE MONTH March 2005
Empire

'A serious critical assessment of the recurrent themes, issues and meanings to be found in his distinctive yet often commercially unsuccessful movies ... A revealing interview with Carpenter conducted by reliable Ron Borst – with questions furnished by the editors – addresses many of the subjects discussed in the book ... These authors have done their homework, and provide much meaningful commentary about a worthwhile group of films truly deserving of this rigorous examination'
www.fangoria.com

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