Description

Book Synopsis
The Empire Strikes Back (1980), the second film in the original Star Wars trilogy, is often cited as the ‘best’ and most popular Star Wars movie. In her compelling study, Rebecca Harrison draws on previously unpublished archival research to reveal a variety of original and often surprising perspectives on the film, from the cast and crew who worked on its production through to the audiences who watched it in cinemas. Harrison guides readers on a journey that begins with the film’s production in 1979 and ends with a discussion about its contemporary status as an object of reverence and nostalgia. She demonstrates how Empire’s meaning and significance has continually shifted over the past 40 years not only within the franchise, but also in broader conversations about film authorship, genre, and identity. Offering new insights and original analysis of Empire via its cultural context, production history, textual analysis, exhibition, reception, and post-1980 re-evaluations of the film, the book provides a timely and relevant reassessment of this enduringly popular film.

Trade Review
Rebecca's book is a thoughtful, meticulously researched celebration of one of the most iconic films of all time. It's the look back we need and deserve right now, one that isn't afraid to critique through a modern lens while still appreciating its importance. General Leia would be proud. -- Courtney Enlow, pop culture writer, podcaster, USA
Provides fascinating new perspectives. * Choice *
Provocative. * Irish Tech News *

Table of Contents
Chapter One. Introduction Chapter Two. Creating an Empire Chapter Three. In Production Chapter Four. The Film Chapter Five. Seeing Star Wars Chapter Six. Critics Write Back Chapter Seven. Number Five at Number One Appendices. Bibliography, Filmography, Film Credits

The Empire Strikes Back

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    A Paperback / softback by Rebecca Harrison

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      Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
      Publication Date: 29/10/2020
      ISBN13: 9781911239970, 978-1911239970
      ISBN10: 191123997X

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      The Empire Strikes Back (1980), the second film in the original Star Wars trilogy, is often cited as the ‘best’ and most popular Star Wars movie. In her compelling study, Rebecca Harrison draws on previously unpublished archival research to reveal a variety of original and often surprising perspectives on the film, from the cast and crew who worked on its production through to the audiences who watched it in cinemas. Harrison guides readers on a journey that begins with the film’s production in 1979 and ends with a discussion about its contemporary status as an object of reverence and nostalgia. She demonstrates how Empire’s meaning and significance has continually shifted over the past 40 years not only within the franchise, but also in broader conversations about film authorship, genre, and identity. Offering new insights and original analysis of Empire via its cultural context, production history, textual analysis, exhibition, reception, and post-1980 re-evaluations of the film, the book provides a timely and relevant reassessment of this enduringly popular film.

      Trade Review
      Rebecca's book is a thoughtful, meticulously researched celebration of one of the most iconic films of all time. It's the look back we need and deserve right now, one that isn't afraid to critique through a modern lens while still appreciating its importance. General Leia would be proud. -- Courtney Enlow, pop culture writer, podcaster, USA
      Provides fascinating new perspectives. * Choice *
      Provocative. * Irish Tech News *

      Table of Contents
      Chapter One. Introduction Chapter Two. Creating an Empire Chapter Three. In Production Chapter Four. The Film Chapter Five. Seeing Star Wars Chapter Six. Critics Write Back Chapter Seven. Number Five at Number One Appendices. Bibliography, Filmography, Film Credits

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