Andrei Tarkovsky

Andrei Tarkovsky is a celebrated Russian filmmaker who emerged in the 1960s and 70s. He is known for his epic films, such as Andrei Rublev and Mirror, and his ventures into science-fiction, such as Solaris and Stalker. Despite facing censorship and exile, Tarkovsky built up a remarkable body of work that continues to grow in reputation. Sean Martin examines Tarkovsky's entire oeuvre, from his student films to his full-length films, and celebrates his radical aesthetic of long takes and tracking shots.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 224 pages
\n Publication date: 20 September 2021
\n Publisher: Oldcastle Books Ltd
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Andrei Tarkovsky, a renowned Russian filmmaker, holds a prominent position among the most celebrated directors since Eisenstein. His significance extends to the 1960s and 70s, during which he emerged as a pivotal figure in cinema. Despite creating only seven feature films, each one stands as a significant milestone in the art form. Among these, the mediaeval epic Andrei Rublev is widely celebrated as one of the greatest films of all time. Additionally, the autobiographical Mirror, set during the tumultuous period of Stalin's purges in the 1930s and the stagnation under Brezhnev, showcases Tarkovsky's profound exploration of human emotions and societal challenges.

Tarkovsky's films, characterized by their artistic brilliance and profound themes, often encountered resistance from the authorities. His unwavering dedication to his craft led to his reputation as a tortured and ultimately martyred filmmaker. Despite the harsh conditions under which he worked, Tarkovsky managed to create a remarkable body of work. His debut feature, Ivan's Childhood, won the Golden Lion at Venice in 1962, solidifying his status as a major filmmaker.

During the 1970s, Tarkovsky ventured into science-fiction with two iconic films: Solaris, regarded as the Soviet response to Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey, and Stalker, which was believed to have predicted the Chernobyl disaster. His artistic vision and profound exploration of human nature continued to captivate audiences worldwide.

In the face of personal hardships, Tarkovsky sought exile and completed his last two films in the West. It was during this period that he published his influential work, Sculpting in Time, a masterpiece of film and artistic theory. Since his passing in Paris in 1986, Tarkovsky's reputation has continued to grow, with his films being celebrated and studied by filmmakers and cinephiles alike.

Sean Martin, in his comprehensive examination of Tarkovsky's oeuvre, delves into the entirety of his work, encompassing his early student films, full-length features, and later stage works. Martin also aims to demystify Tarkovsky's reputation as a difficult director, while simultaneously highlighting his profound artistic achievements. Through his analysis, Martin provides a deeper understanding of Tarkovsky's cinematic language, his exploration of spirituality, and his unique approach to storytelling.

In conclusion, Andrei Tarkovsky remains a towering figure in the world of cinema, his legacy enduring through the ages. His seven feature films, each a testament to his artistic brilliance, continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Tarkovsky's profound exploration of human emotions, his commitment to artistic integrity, and his enduring influence on the film industry make him a true visionary whose work will be cherished for generations to come.

\n Weight: 228g\n
Dimension: 128 x 199 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780857304704\n \n