Space Odyssey: Stanley Kubrick, Arthur C. Clarke, and the Making of a Masterpiece

2001: A Space Odyssey, directed by Stanley Kubrick and written by Arthur C. Clarke, is considered one of the greatest films ever made. This book provides an in-depth look at the making of the film, including previously untold stories and dozens of photos from the production.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2019
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Fifty years ago, a groundbreaking film had its premiere, and it continues to be acclaimed as one of the most remarkable and significant motion pictures ever made. 2001: A Space Odyssey, directed by Stanley Kubrick and written by Arthur C. Clarke, depicted the first encounters between humanity and extraterrestrial intelligence. This cinematic masterpiece was the result of a unique collaboration between Kubrick and Clarke, following Kubrick's successful cold war satire, Dr. Strangelove. Kubrick sought to create the first truly first-rate science fiction film, drawing inspiration from Clarke's ideas and one of the author's short stories as the initial source of inspiration.

The film benefited from pioneering special effects that still hold their own in the age of computer-generated imagery, even though they were created decades ago. In Space Odyssey, author, artist, and award-winning filmmaker Michael Benson delves into the behind-the-scenes details of the film's creation. Through extensive research of Kubrick and Clarke's archives, Benson provides expert insight into the making of this iconic masterpiece. He has secured the cooperation of Kubrick's widow, Christiane, and has conducted interviews with most of the key individuals who worked on the film. Additionally, Benson has sourced other previously unpublished interviews to offer a comprehensive 360-degree view of the film's genesis, production, and legacy.

Space Odyssey features dozens of previously unpublished photos from the making of the film, providing a rare glimpse into the production process. The book is a must-read for fans of 2001: A Space Odyssey, cinema enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the art of filmmaking and the creative process. It sheds light on the collaborative efforts of Kubrick and Clarke, the technical challenges faced during production, and the lasting impact of the film on popular culture and science fiction.

In conclusion, 2001: A Space Odyssey remains a cinematic masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the world of film. Through the insightful work of Michael Benson, this book offers a deeper understanding of the film's creation, providing a captivating journey into the world of Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke.

Weight: 564g
Dimension: 226 x 156 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501163944