Filmish: A Graphic Journey Through Film (Non-Fiction - SelfMadeHero)

Film theory in a nutshell; takeaways from each chapter are numerous and meaningful. Masterfully put together considering so many issues are covered. Should be required reading before watching any film.

I teach filmmaking to teenagers, so I am always on the lookout for new teaching tools and resources. This is an excellent introduction to film theory for young people who have developed an enthusiasm for movies but know nothing about film studies. Not only is the graphic approach fun, fast and easy to understand but Ross has essentially created a superb illustrated bibliography here for those wanting a jumping off place into more in-depth study. If I taught an undergraduate college course in film history or appreciation, this would be required reading—I would also give it to advanced high school students.My one beef with Ross's approach is that I find him to present a number of popular critical positions somewhat uncritically himself. There is a lot of pleasure and enrichment to be had in movies that may be, for one reason or another, "problematic," from within a certain context. For some students, this book might lead to pre-judgement of works they have not experienced first hand.Overall, though, if taken for the many ways it is useful and enjoyable, an excellent guide.

Filmish by Edward Ross draws on cinema to work through the conventions of a graphic novel. Ross weaves theory into the mix, citing theorists like Laura Mulvey. The book is broken into sections, each one illuminating a different affordance of film.Of course, the book is profligate with examples, with film including early examples up to titles released in recent years. I would use this book as a teacher of media, but also found it informative and useful as a reader.

This book is fine, and not a waste of time. Still, if you're interested in learning about film, you're better off watching The Story of Film (actually, do this anyway) or reading any of a number of other introductory texts (Amazon will likely point you in the right direction). If you're interested in the graphic info-novel format, this might be a good bet for you, though I question the idea of trying to talk about film using a combination of simple pictures and sparse text -- I could imagine this format working, but I don't think it does in this case. Also, this is just my personal taste, but I also didn't love (a) the prose [it tended towards the cliche and vague] or (b) the omnipresence of the narrator's (authors?) face.

I bought this item as a gift to a film student. Before gifting, my cursory examination reveal it to be well crafted with clever illustrations. Exactly the type of thing for those comfortable with the graphic novel format.

Bought as a graduation gift for film student. This is a truly marvelous and fun book! Great history, fun reading.

Awesome book! Used it in my Film Analysis and Criticism class and I can safely say is the best "textbook" I've ever had to read for class. Interesting info and cool comic book layout.

College course.

I didn’t realise it would be black and white inside but still a nice item.

A fantastic overview of the world of film, and a highly recommended starting point for anyone wanting to learn more about film theory. A joy from start to finish, with the author's love of film leaping from every panel.

very happy customer

What a fabulous book! Takes all the big (potentially tricky) ideas in Film Studies and renders them beautifully clear and accessible, in concise writing and engaging, witty visuals. A smart, thoroughly enjoyable read.

Great book, well observed by a true film fan. Watch out though – spoiler alerts! Illustrations are great.