British Film Industry in 25 Careers: The Mavericks, Visionaries and Outsiders Who Shaped British Cinema

The British Film Industry in 25 Careers tells the history of the British film industry from the perspective of various mavericks, visionaries, and outsiders who have become successful producers, distributors, writers, directors, editors, props masters, publicists, special effects technicians, talent scouts, stars, and moguls. It highlights the barriers of nationality, race, class, and gender that they have overcome to enter the industry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 25 February 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The British Film Industry in 25 Careers delves into the captivating history of the British film industry, offering a unique perspective through the stories of diverse mavericks, visionaries, and outsiders who have achieved remarkable success in various roles. These individuals, often defying considerable odds, have emerged as successful producers, distributors, writers, directors, editors, props masters, publicists, special effects technicians, talent scouts, stars, and even moguls. While some, like Richard Attenborough and David Puttnam, are well-known figures, others, such as screenwriter and editor Alma Reville, also known as Mrs. Alfred Hitchcock; Constance Smith, the forgotten star of British cinema; and producer Betty Box and her director sister Muriel, are less familiar names.

What unites these individuals is their unwavering determination to forge their own paths into the British film business, overcoming barriers of nationality, race, class, and gender. Their journeys are a testament to the resilience and creativity of the human spirit, showcasing the power of perseverance and self-belief in achieving one's dreams.

In addition to the essays on historical figures, the book features interviews with contemporary professionals who have emerged into the modern film industry. These individuals, including director Amma Asante, writer and filmmaker Julian Fellowes, artist and director Isaac Julien, novelist and screenwriter Hanif Kureishi, and media entrepreneur Efe Cakarel, founder of the online film platform MUBI, share their insights and experiences navigating the ever-evolving landscape of production and distribution.

The interviews provide a valuable counterpoint to the historical narratives, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities faced by filmmakers in the digital age. They discuss the changing models of production and release, the impact of digital distribution, and the evolving role of filmmakers in a rapidly changing media landscape.

The British Film Industry in 25 Careers is a captivating and informative exploration of the rich tapestry of the British film industry. It offers a glimpse into the lives and careers of the individuals who have shaped its history, providing a deeper understanding of the industry's evolution and its impact on the world of cinema. Whether you are a film enthusiast, a student of film history, or a professional seeking to expand your knowledge and expertise, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of British film.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350140684