by Alain Silver and James Ursini
4th edition
Limelight, 2010
This is the 4th edition [updated and expanded] of the popular tome by Alain Silver and James Ursini. The subtitle From Nosferatu to Twilight shows the coverage continues through the popular series which made the successful transition from print to the silver screen. Television is not neglected. Linda Brookover contributes an article about HBO's True Blood and vampire politics. "True Blood is a parody of antebellum intolerance, where the vampire is just the latest entity to be vilified for wanting equality, unusual but not unknown to the horror genre." p314. [True Blood is loosely based on The Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris.]
Vampire films contains the potent combination of sex and bloody violence some more savage than others, but the fusion of two powerful symbols continue to mesmerize viewers. There is of course room for beauty and The Vampire Film offers plenty of feast for the eyes.
Every page has beautiful full color (and some black and white) stills and posters from films and television. Chapter three The Female Vampire begins with a full page photo of late actress Ingrid Pitt in her role as the notorious Elizabeth Bathory in the movie Countess Dracula (1971), and Christopher Lee in his first appearance as Dracula opens Chapter one Sources of Vampire Lore in Film.
I admit to a weakness for vampires and photographs. This book can keep me occupied for hours simply paging through, admiring the stunning pictures, and reading passionate passages about the subject matter. You don't need to be a film buff to enjoy this gorgeous volume, but if you are it will only add to your enjoyment. Besides the well written text there is an extensive filmography (including foreign language) guaranteed to keep your Netflix queu filled for months.
This terrific book belongs on the shelf of any vampire or horror aficionado..
[I received a copy of this book from the publisher and one from my husband for Christmas. I am twice blessed.]
7 comments:
This looks a beautiful book, Patricia. I'm adding it to my birthday list :). Thanks for drawing it to my attention!
Marie
I'm going to have to check this out. Seems like it could be fairly engrossing, thanks for posting about it.
Hi Marie
Great to hear from you! Vampire Film is a lovely book. I hope you enjoy it.
I'm looking forward to April and the publication of Blood Sin!
Patricia
Hi John
Thanks for your comment. Let me know what you think of the book.
PS You have a terrific blog site!
Thanks, Patricia! Me too :)
Marie
Sounds like an interesting book, Patricia. Sorry I haven't been by in sooo long. Been really busy.
Tyhitia
Hope you have been busy writing! What are you working on now?
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