Discover the groundbreaking work of Jean Epstein in this comprehensive English examination of his diverse filmography. This 2016 release from Manchester University Press highlights Epstein's unique ability to merge cinema with poetry and philosophy, making him a pivotal figure in avant-garde film theory. Known for his innovative techniques such as daring close-ups, rhythmic montage, and slow-motion sequences, Epstein was not just a filmmaker but also an anti-elitist intellectual who sought to engage audiences from all walks of life.

Explore how influential filmmakers and theorists, including Cocteau, Bunuel, Hitchcock, Pasolini, Godard, Kracauer, Deleuze, and Rancičre, were inspired by Epstein's pioneering concepts and aesthetic approaches. This essential read delves into his desire to create a transformative cinematic experience, healing viewers through a blend of familiar genres, including melodramas and documentaries.

Unpack the complexities of Epstein's identity as a Polish-born, half-Jewish artist and author of a treatise on homosexuality, who has often been overlooked in film history. This book revitalizes his legacy, positioning him among the giants of interwar cinema such as Renoir, Lang, Capra, and Eisenstein. Don't miss your chance to immerse yourself in this insightful narrative that restores Epstein’s rightful place in the cinematic landscape.

(Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.)

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781784993481
Year: 2016
Publisher: Manchester University Press


Description:


If cinema can be approached as poetry and philosophy, it is because of Jean Epstein. Cocteau, Bunuel (who was his assistant), Hitchcock, Pasolini and Godard, and theoreticians Kracauer, Deleuze and Ranciere are directly influenced by Epstein's pioneering film work, writings, and concepts. This book is the first in English to examine his oeuvre comprehensively.

An avant-garde artist and an anti-elitist intellectual, Epstein wanted to craft moments of pure transformative cinema. Using familiar genres - melodramas and documentaries - he hoped to heal viewers of all classes and hasten social utopia. A lover of cinema as cognitive and sensorial technology, and a poet of the screen, he pushed cinematography - as photogenie - towards the experimental sublime, through daring close-ups, rhythmic montage, slow motion, even reverse motion.

Polish-born, half-Jewish, and the author of a treatise on homosexuality, Epstein has been unfairly relegated to the shadows of film history. This book restores him to the limelight of interwar world cinema, on a par with Renoir, Lang, Capra and Eisenstein. -- .