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Star Wars The Last Jedi™ The Visual Dictionary
by Pablo HidalgoStar Wars: The Last Jedi™: The Visual Dictionary is the definitive guide to Star Wars: The Last Jedi, revealing the characters, creatures, droids, locations, and technology from the new film. Packed with 100+ images and information as penned by Star Wars™ scribe Pablo Hidalgo, it's a must-have for all fans who want to go beyond the movie experience.© & TM 2017 LUCASFILM LTD.
Star Wars Maker Lab: 20 Craft and Science Projects
by Liz Lee Heinecke Cole HortonA combination of fun activities and intergalactic experiments will teach your budding Padawan how to become a Master of science, in both the real world and the Star Wars galaxy!Have you ever wanted to move things without touching them like a Jedi can? Or maybe explode a balloon with a beam of energy? Now you can! Learn the basics of science by travelling through the Star Wars galaxy.This book is perfect for budding scientists and Star Wars aficionados alike. The 20 projects are full of fun facts for kids, colorful diagrams, and easy-to-follow instructions that cover a range of topics that will enthrall and entertain. Star Wars Maker Lab is filled with science and science fiction for readers between ages 9-12.Unleash Your Inner Scientist, Engineer And Artist! With a blockbuster 128 pages packed with 20 fabulous projects, Star Wars Maker Lab is out of this world! Using the clear step-by-step instructions, it guides home scientists and makers through each exciting experiment – from making Jabba&’s gooey slime or a hovering land speeder, to an Ewok catapult and a glowing Gungan Globe of Peace. Each experiment has fact-filled panels to explain real-world science as well as the Star Wars science fiction from the movies.This Star Wars book, covering a range of STEM topics keeps children entertained for hours, making use of many household items such as cardboard tubes, baking soda, cornstarch, straws, balloons, and food coloring. There is also plenty to keep more adventurous scientists enthralled, with instructions to make a bristlebot mouse droid, lightsaber duel, and Mustafar volcanoLearn about the galaxy we live in, inspired by one far, far away:- Explore STEM topics from science to science-fiction- Stir up some sticky Jabba the Hutt Slime- Duel with Lightsabers - Create an erupting Mustafar Volcano- Delve into the mechanics of the Star Wars universe from Speed Gliders to Anakin&’s Mechno-Arm and more!Star Wars Maker Lab is part of the educational series Maker Lab. Maker Lab includes kid-safe projects and crafts that will get young inventors&’ wheels turning and make science pure fun. Photographs and facts carefully detail the &“why&” and &“how&” of each experiment using real-world examples to provide context so kids can gain a deeper understanding of the scientific principles applied.Maker Lab will help kids find their inner inventor and create winning projects for school projects, science fairs, and beyond.© & TM 2017 LUCASFILM LTD. Used Under Authorization.
Star Wars The Mandalorian Handbook: Explore the Galaxy with Grogu
by DK Matt JonesIncludes facts from the TV series Star Wars: The Mandalorian, this ebook is aimed at young kids who want to join Mando, Grogu, Boba Fett, and Ahsoka Tano on their thrilling adventures. They'll meet strange aliens and droids, learn about new planets and frightening monsters, and read about the evil villains who will stop at nothing to complete their missions.Hop aboard the Razor Crest and get exploring with Star Wars: The Mandalorian Handbook!
Star Wars Meet the Heroes R2-D2
by Emma GrangeGet to know R2-D2 and follow his many adventures across the galaxy in this new seriesWho is R2-D2? Who are his friends? What is R2-D2's bravest mission? Perfect for children who are new to Star Wars and also for young fans of the movies, this exciting guide answers all your questions and teaches children fun facts about friendly famous astromech droid R2-D2--including his incredible adventures with C-3PO, Han Solo, and other rebel heroes!Follow R2-D2's journey from faithful droid companion to famous Rebel fighter and Resistance ally. Discover how R2-D2 helps Luke Skywalker to fly starships, what language he speaks, and why his best friend is golden droid C-3PO. Featuring a simple Q&A format and exciting images, DK's Star Wars Meet the Heroes: R2-D2 is a fun, welcoming introduction to the famous droid as children follow his adventures in a galaxy far, far away. With colorful movie stills from the original trilogy, prequels, and the latest sequels, DK's book allows children to explore R2-D2's amazing world.© & TM 2019 LUCASFILM LTD.
Star Wars Meet the Villains Darth Vader
by DK Ruth AmosGet to know the scary Sith Lord!Who is Darth Vader? How does he become a Sith? Why does he wear a mask? Perfect for children who are new to Star Wars and also for young fans of the movies, this exciting guide answers these questions and many more and teaches children fun facts about Sith Lord Darth Vader--including his amazing battles with rebels and Jedi heroes Obi-Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker!Follow Vader's journey from Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker to the dark side of the Force alongside Darth Sidious. Discover what Force tricks Vader uses, who he works for, which lightsaber he uses, and what planet his secret base is on. Featuring a simple Q&A format and exciting images, DK's Star Wars Meet the Villains: Darth Vader is a fun, welcoming introduction to the infamous Sith Lord as children follow his adventures in a galaxy far, far away. With colorful movie stills from the original trilogy, prequels, and the latest sequels, DK's book allows children to explore Darth Vader's villainous world.© & (TM) 2018 Lucasfilm Ltd.
Star Wars Meet the Villains Stormtroopers
by Emma GrangeGet to know the Empire's fearsome forces in this new series.What are stormtroopers? How many types are there? Who do they work for? Perfect for children who are new to Star Wars and also for young fans of the movies, this exciting guide will answer these questions and many more and teach children fun facts about stormtroopers - including following Finn's incredible journey from First Order stormtrooper to Resistance hero!Learn more about stormtroopers' most famous battles and missions, such as on planet Hoth and Endor's forest moon. Discover what weapons stormtroopers use, the training they undergo, and whether they always obey commands. Featuring a simple Q&A format and exciting images, DK's Star Wars Meet the Villains: Stormtroopers is a fun, welcoming introduction to the Emperor's infamous forces as children learn about their lives in a galaxy far, far away. With colorful movie stills from the original trilogy, prequels and the latest sequels, DK's book lets children explore everything there is to know about stormtroopers!© & TM 2019 LUCASFILM LTD.
Star Wars Multiverse (Quick Takes: Movies and Popular Culture)
by Carmelo EsterrichStar Wars may have started out as a film about a Manichean battle between good and evil, but as countless filmmakers, novelists, animators, fan artists and even cosplayers have taken the opportunity to play in the fictional world George Lucas created, it has expanded into something far greater, resulting in a richly layered and diverse Star Wars multiverse. Drawing from a full range of Star Wars media, including comics, children’s books, fan films, and television shows like Clone Wars and The Mandalorian, Carmelo Esterrich explores how these stories set in a galaxy far far away reflect issues that hit closer to home. He examines what they have to say about political oppression, authoritarianism, colonialism, discrimination, xenophobia, and perpetual war. Yet he also investigates subtler ways in which the personal is political within the multiverse, including its articulations of gender and sexuality, its cultural hierarchies of language use, and its complex relationships between humans, droids and myriad species. This book demonstrates that the Star Wars multiverse is not just a stage for thrilling interstellar battles, but also an exciting space for interpretation and discovery.
Star Wars on Trial: Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Debate the Most Popular Science Fiction Films of All Time
by David Brin and Matthew Woodring StoverOrder in the Court! Star Wars: the most significant, powerful myth of the twenty-first century or morally bankrupt military fantasy? Six films. Countless books. $20 billion in revenue. No one can question the financial value or cultural impact of the Star Wars film franchise. But has the impact been for the good? In Star Wars on Trial's courtroom—Droid Judge presiding—Star Wars stands accused of elitist politics and sexism, religious and ethical lapses, the destruction of literary science fiction and science fiction film, and numerous plot holes and logical gaps. Supported by a witness list of bestselling science fiction authors, David Brin (for the prosecution) and Matthew Woodring Stover (for the defense) debate these charges and more before delivering their closing statements. The verdict? That's up to you. Covering the films from A New Hope to The Force Awakens, Brin and Stover provide new forewords that explore the newest generation of Star Wars films and what JJ Abrams must do to live up to—or redeem—the franchise.
Star Wars on Trial: Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Debate the Most Popular Science Fiction Films of All Time
by David Brin and Matthew Woodring StoverStar Wars: the most significant, powerful myth of the twenty-first century or morally bankrupt military fantasy? Six films. Countless books. $20 billion in revenue. No one can question the financial value or cultural impact of the Star Wars film franchise. But has the impact been for the good? In Star Wars on Trial's courtroom—Droid Judge presiding—Star Wars stands accused of elitist politics and sexism, religious and ethical lapses, the destruction of literary science fiction and science fiction film, and numerous plot holes and logical gaps. Supported by a witness list of bestselling science fiction authors, David Brin (for the prosecution) and Matthew Woodring Stover (for the defense) debate these charges and more before delivering their closing statements. The verdict? That's up to you. Covering the films from A New Hope to Revenge of the Sith, Brin and Stover provide new forewords that explore the newest generation of Star Wars films and what JJ Abrams must do to live up to—or redeem—the franchise.
Star Wars Propaganda: A History of Persuasive Art in the Galaxy
by Pablo HidalgoAn exploration of Star Wars universe history through stunning propaganda-style artworks tied to some of the films.A Star Wars authority deepens and extends our appreciation of the Star Wars galaxy with this imaginative “history” featuring striking full-color artwork—created exclusively for this entertaining volume—that examines the persuasive messages used to intimidate and inspire the citizenry of the galaxy far, far away. . . .A Star Destroyer hovering over a planet, symbolizing Imperial domination.An X-wing delivering a message of resistance and hope on behalf of the Rebellion.A line of armed, faceless First Order stormtroopers promoting unity.These are all examples of propaganda used by the Empire to advocate strength and maintain fear, and by the Rebel Alliance to inspire hope and win support for the fight. Star Wars Propaganda takes fans into the beloved epic story as never before, bringing the battle between these two sides to life in a fresh and brilliant way.Star Wars Propaganda includes fifty dazzling pieces of art representing all seven episodes—including material related to Star Wars: The Force Awakens—specially produced for this companion volume. Each page combines an original image and a short description detailing its “history”: the in-world “artist” who created it (either willingly or through coercion), where in the Star Wars galaxy it appeared, and why that particular location was targeted.Written by a franchise expert and insider, Star Wars Propaganda is sure to become a keepsake for every fan and graphic artist as well.Praise for Star Wars Propaganda“A galactic history lesson, offering even the most devoted fans a deep dive into corners of the George Lucas films they may not have known. The artwork of ‘Propaganda’ is stellar.” —Wall Street Journal
Star Wars The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire
by Chris KempshallUncover a history of galactic evil."So this is how liberty dies—with thunderous applause." —Senator Padmé AmidalaWhen Sheev Palpatine declared the birth of his new Empire, he expected it would stand for thousands of years. Instead, it lastedonly 24. This is the story of how a tyrannical regime rose from the ashes of democracy, ruled the galaxy with an iron fist, and then collapsed into dust.It is a story of war and heroes. It is a story of propaganda and the power of fascism. But most of all, it is a story of normal people trying to live their lives in the face of brutal dictatorship.From the barbarity of Darth Vader's campaigns to the horrors of the Tarkin Initiative, this book offers new insights into the dark entity at the core of the Star Wars saga, with chapters covering economic strategy and political organisation, propaganda, crime and punishment, military tactics, and warfare, giving even the most expert Star Wars fans a fresh perspective on the Galactic Empire.© AND ™ 2023 LUCASFILM LTD.
Star Wars The Rise of Skywalker The Visual Dictionary: With Exclusive Cross-Sections
by Pablo HidalgoGo beyond Star Wars™ The Rise of Skywalker with this definitive guide to the final chapter of the Skywalker saga, produced in close collaboration with Lucasfilm.Written by Star Wars™ insider Pablo Hidalgo, this 200-page book is packed with more than 600 images, five stunning original cross-section artworks, and behind-the-scenes photography in this must-have companion.Uncover the inner workings of the treadable and the secrets of Rey's Jedi library. Discover the Sith fortress world of Exegol and the treasures of droidsmith Babu Frik. Examine the brutal weaponry of the Knights of Ren and the ingenious garb of the Orbak riders. Meet the most notorious criminals of Kijimi and the sociable Aki-Aki on Pasaana. Study the intricate reforging of Kylo Ren's helmet and the menacing armor of the Sith troopers.With a foreword by Episode 9 writer, Chris Terrio, Star Wars™ The Rise of Skywalker: The Visual Dictionary is the perfect gift for Star Wars fans of all ages.© & TM 2020 LUCASFILM LTD.
Star Wars Skywalker – A Family At War
by Kristin BaverUncover the secrets of the Skywalkers: the family that shaped a galaxy far, far away ...The Skywalker story has everything: passion, intrigue, heroism, and dark deeds.This revelatory biography explores every twist and turn of the Skywalker dynasty: the slow seduction to the dark side of Anakin; his doomed marriage to Padmé Amidala; the heroics of Luke and Leia; the fall and redemption of Han Solo and Princess Leia&’s son, Ben; and the struggles of his dyad in the Force, Rey. Leaving no stone unturned in tracing the dynasty&’s trials and tribulations, this definitive biography of Star Wars&’ first family explores and explains the deeper, more personal story of the Skywalkers, their characters, motivations, and, against seemingly impossible odds, their ultimate triumph.© AND TM 2021 LUCASFILM LTD.
Star Wars Stormtroopers: Beyond the Armor
by Ryder Windham Adam BrayJust in time for the next blockbuster, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, this unique and beautifully designed compendium with removable features traces one of the franchise’s most iconic characters—the stormtrooper—from initial development through all nine Star Wars movies to their many iterations in TV, comics, videogames, novels, and pop-culture. Star Wars: A New Hope, the very first installment in the beloved science-fiction series, introduced the Imperial stormtroopers—the army of the fearsome and tyrannical Galactic Empire. Charged with establishing Imperial authority and suppressing resistance, these terrifying, faceless, well-disciplined soldiers in white have become a universal symbol of oppression. Star Wars Stormtroopers explores these striking warriors and their evolution in depth for the first time. Ryder Windham and Adam Bray trace the roots of their creation and design, and explore how these elite troops from a galaxy far, far away have been depicted in movies, cartoons, comics, novels, and merchandizing. Filled with photographs, illustrations, story boards, and other artwork, this lavish officially licensed book comes complete with removable features, including posters, stickers, replica memorabilia and more, making it an essential keepsake for every Star Wars fan, as well as military, design, and film aficionados.
Star Wars Timelines
by Kristin Baver Jason Fry Cole Horton Amy Richau Clayton SandellChart the history of Star Wars in this stunning guide, from the time before the High Republic to the end of the First Order.An indispensable companion for all Star Wars fans, this premium quality book displays visual timelines that chronologically map key events, characters, and developments, and mark their significance.Track crucial conflicts across the years that affect the galaxy in profound ways. Follow the Skywalker lightsaber as it passes through the generations and witness the evolution of the iconic TIE fighter across different eras. Trace the movement of the Death Star plans over the years and uncover multiple branching timelines that break down important battles. See essential events at a glance arranged by era and drill down into details to discover major and minor events, key dates, and fascinating insights all chronologically arranged. Pore over intricate timelines on nearly every page.Soar into Star Wars Timelines to explore: Chronological approach that divides Star Wars history into seven eras:• Early History, The High Republic, The Fall of the Jedi, The Reign of the Empire, The Age of Rebellion, The New Republic, and The Rise of the First OrderA must-have addition to the library of all fans of Star Wars, Star Wars Timelines is sure to thrill.
Star Wars: The Visual Encyclopedia
by Adam Bray Cole Horton Tricia BarrCovering more than 2,500 characters, creatures, planets, vehicles, Droids™, weapons, technology, and more from the Star Wars™ universe, this visual tour is the ultimate compendium for the epic saga and beyond.Take a stunning visual tour of Star Wars with DK's comprehensive pictorial guide to the galaxy far, far away!From lightsabers to beasts to food and clothing, Star Wars: The Visual Encyclopedia is a virtual museum in a book. Explore beautiful galleries with more than 2,500 images, and discover facts about Star Wars culture, science, and geography.With a full history of the galactic politics, the Jedi Council, and the Empire, Star Wars: The Visual Encyclopedia walks fans through the entire timeline of Star Wars. See the blasters of Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope™, look at the stormtroopers of Star Wars: The Force Awakens™, and study the geography of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story™.Each section of the book focuses on different topics to dedicate special attention and detail to every part of the universe, no matter how small. From the planets in the outer rim to Padmé's bridal wear, nothing is missed.A celebration of all things Star Wars, this compendium is the perfect addition to any fan's bookshelf.© & TM 2017 LUCASFILM LTD. Used Under Authorization.
Star Wars vs. Star Trek
by Matt ForbeckCould a Jedi knight use his light saber to deflect a beam from a phaser? Which aliens are cooler: the Cardassians or the Chazrach?Have any Federation ships ever made the Kessel run in less than twelve parsecs? And most important . . . in a fight between the Empire and the Federation, who would win? Ever since Princess Leia's starship hove into sight on the silver screen, fans of Star Wars and Star Trek have been debating these questions. Now, side by side, they can line up aliens, technology, story points, weaponry, and heroes from the two great science fiction/fantasy stories of our age. For fans everywhere, this volume offers detailed information about both universes, as well as trivia, quizzes, quotes, and information drawn from these two iconic settings. So phasers on stun and light sabers at the ready! It's time for the duel to begin.
Star Wars vs. Star Trek: Could the Empire kick the Federation's ass? And other galaxy-shaking enigmas
by Matt ForbeckCould a Jedi knight use his light saber to deflect a beam from a phaser? Which aliens are cooler: the Cardassians or the Chazrach? Have any Federation ships ever made the Kessel run in less than twelve parsecs? And most important, in a fight between the Empire and the Federation, who would win?Ever since Princess Leia's starship hovered into sight on the silver screen, fans of Star Wars and Star Trek have been debating these questions. Now, side by side, they can line up aliens, technology, story points, weaponry, and heroes from the two great science fiction/fantasy stories of our age.For fans everywhere, this volume offers detailed information about both universes, as well as trivia, quizzes, quotes, and information drawn from these two iconic settings. So phasers on stun and light sabers at the ready! It's time for the duel to begin.
Star Wars Vs. Star Trek: Could the Empire kick the Federation's Ass? And other Galaxy-Shaking Enigmas
by Matt ForbeckCould a Jedi knight use his light saber to deflect a beam from a phaser? Which aliens are cooler: the Cardassians or the Chazrach?Have any Federation ships ever made the Kessel run in less than twelve parsecs? And most important . . . in a fight between the Empire and the Federation, who would win? Ever since Princess Leia's starship hove into sight on the silver screen, fans of Star Wars and Star Trek have been debating these questions. Now, side by side, they can line up aliens, technology, story points, weaponry, and heroes from the two great science fiction/fantasy stories of our age. For fans everywhere, this volume offers detailed information about both universes, as well as trivia, quizzes, quotes, and information drawn from these two iconic settings. So phasers on stun and light sabers at the ready! It's time for the duel to begin.
Star Wars Women of the Galaxy Updated and Expanded (Star Wars)
by Amy RatcliffeNow in paperback, fully revised and updated with characters from Disney+ shows including The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and The Acolyte, as well as The High Republic, Jedi: Fallen Order, and more, this is the essential celebration of the powerful female characters of Star Wars.They are heroes and villains, Sith and Jedi, senators and scoundrels, mothers, mercenaries, artists, and pilots. The women of the Star Wars galaxy drive its stories and saga forward at every level. This beautifully illustrated, fully authorized book profiles fascinating Star Wars women from across films, fiction, comics, animation, and games. Each character is explored through key story beats, fresh insights, and behind-the-scenes details by author Amy Ratcliffe. Also showcasing more than 130 illustrations by a dynamic range of female and non-binary artists, here is an inspiring celebration of the Star Wars characters that help create a galaxy far, far away.© & ™ 2024 Lucasfilm Ltd.NEW CHARACTERS, UPDATES THROUGHOUT: This new edition adds 20 new characters and updates the 75 characters included in the hardcover edition, expanding key profiles such as Rey, Leia, and Ahsoka.NEW ARTWORK: Each new character is featured in a new full-page illustration by a female or nonbinary artist. Expanded profiles also include new artwork.AN INVITATION FOR EXPLORATION: Delivering character profiles that act as introductions but are also rich with detail and insight, this is a fresh way to dive into Star Wars lore through the lens of characters whose stories may span multiple media, and go deeper into the stories of beloved characters.CHARACTERS FROM ACROSS THE GALAXY AND MEDIA (BOOKS, COMICS, TV, GAMES, FILMS): Leia Organa, Rey, Ahsoka Tano, Fennec Shand, Kay Vess, Jyn Erso, Bo-Katan Kryze, Osha and Mae, Padmé Amidala, Avar Kriss, Maz Kanata, Doctor Aphra, and many more . . .Perfect for:Star Wars fans looking to explore or celebrate the female characters of the galaxyAn entry path for anyone looking for dive deeper into stories of favorite characters in different media, or discover new favorite characters
Star Wars Year By Year New Edition
by Kristin Baver Pablo Hidalgo Daniel Wallace Ryder WindhamDiscover everything you've ever wanted to know about Star Wars in this complete history of the most famous franchise in movie history.Painstakingly researched and superbly illustrated, Star Wars™ Year By Year: A Visual History, New Edition presents a unique Star Wars timeline-the full history of the amazing Star Wars phenomenon as you've never seen it before.This stunning visual journey features trivia and cultural cornerstones from director George Lucas' early life through to the iconic movie stills, comic books, novels, toys, video games, and theme parks that have spawned from five decades of seminal film making. Fully updated and expanded, this edition encompasses all nine episodes of the original, prequel, and sequel trilogies, along with the standalone movies Rogue One and Solo, and the acclaimed television series, The Mandalorian. Produced in full collaboration with Lucasfilm and written by renowned Star Wars experts, Star Wars Year by Year: A Visual History, New Edition is ideal for Star Wars fanatics and newbies alike.© & ™ 2021 Lucasfilm Ltd.
Stardom and the Aesthetics of Neorealism: Ingrid Bergman in Rossellini's Italy (Routledge Advances in Film Studies #15)
by Ora GelleyIn this exciting new book, Gelley considers the collaboration between Rossellini and Ingrid Bergman in light of the neorealist aesthetic. This study re-examines the director's postwar works in relation to the contemporary discussion on Italian national identity: rather than marking a radical break with the director's early neorealist successes, Rossellini's films with Bergman in fact extend the boundaries of neorealism and challenge the standard reading of its basic tenets, especially the relationship between character and setting. Gelley reassesses the relationship between European postwar and American cinema, looking at how the image of the Hollywood star was translated and transformed when it was imported into Rossellini's Italy. Rossellini's insertion of the Hollywood star into the native landscape had a significant influence on the director's approach to the neorealist aesthetic. His filming of the encounter between Bergman and the Italian landscape involves not only a re-interpretation and transformation of the Hollywood star persona, but also a challenge to the idealized notion of an authentic Italian national collective free of foreign influence. The disruption of Bergman's character into the Italian landscape became one means whereby the director was able to explore the ambivalence inherent in any attempt to construct a national identity.
The Stardom Film: Creating the Hollywood Fairy Tale (Short Cuts)
by Karen McNallySince the earliest days of the movie industry, Hollywood has mythologized itself through stories of stardom. A female protagonist escapes the confines of rural America in search of freedom in a western dream factory; an ambitious, conceited movie idol falls from grace and discovers what it means to embody true stardom; or a fading star confronts Hollywood’s obsession with youth by embarking on a determined mission to reclaim her lost fame. In its various forms, the stardom film is crucial to understanding how Hollywood has shaped its own identity, as well as its claim on America’s collective imagination.In the first book to focus exclusively on these modern fairy tales, Karen McNally traces the history of this genre from silent cinema to contemporary film and television to show its significance to both Hollywood and broader American culture. Drawing on extensive archival research, she provides close readings of a wide range of films, from Souls for Sale (1923) to A Star is Born (1937 and 1954) and Judy (2019), moving between fictional narratives, biopics, and those that occupy a space in between. McNally considers the genre’s core set of tropes, its construction of stardom around idealized white femininity, and its reflections on the blurred boundaries between myth, image, and reality. The Stardom Film offers an original understanding of one of Hollywood’s most enduring genres and why the allure of fame continues to fascinate us.
Stardom in Contemporary Hindi Cinema: Celebrity and Fame in Globalized Times
by Aysha Iqbal Viswamohan Clare M. WilkinsonIn this book, film scholars, anthropologists, and critics discuss star-making in the contemporary Hindi-language film industry in India, also known as “Bollywood.” Drawing on theories of stardom, globalization, transnationalism, gender, and new media studies, the chapters explore contemporary Hindi film celebrity. With the rise of social media and India’s increased engagement in the global economy, Hindi film stars are forging their identities not just through their on-screen images and magazine and advertising appearances, but also through an array of media platforms, product endorsements, setting fashion trends, and involvement in social causes. Focusing on some of the best-known Indian stars since the late 1990s, the book discusses the multiplying avenues for forging a star identity, the strategies industry outsiders adopt to become stars, and the contradictions and conflicts that such star-making produces. It addresses questions such as: What traits of contemporary stars have contributed most to longevity and success in the industry? How has filmmaking technology and practice altered the nature of stardom? How has the manufacture of celebrity altered with the recent appearance of commodity culture in India and the rise of a hyper-connected global economy? By doing so, it describes a distinct moment in India and in the world in which stars and stardom are drawn more closely than ever into the vital events of global culture. Hindi films and their stars are part of the national and global entertainment circuits that are bigger and more competitive than ever. As such, this is a timely book creates opportunities for examining stardom in other industries and provides fruitful cross-cultural perspectives on star identities today."Grounded in rigorous scholarship as well as a palpable love of Hindi cinema, this collection of 19 essays on a dizzying array of contemporary Hindi film stars makes for an informative, thought-provoking, illuminating, and most of all, a joyful read. Pushing boundaries of not only global Star Studies but also film theory as a whole, this de-colonised and de-colonising volume is a must read for film scholars, students and cinephiles!" Dr. Sunny Singh, Senior Lecturer - Creative Writing and English Literature, Sir John Cass School of Art, Architecture & Design, London Metropolitan University “A wide-ranging overview of Hindi cinema’s filmi firmament today, focussing on its most intriguing and brightest-burning stars. The variety of approaches to stardom and celebrity by both established and upcoming scholars reveals a web of interconnecting stories and concerns that provide fascinating new insights into the workings of today's Hindi film industry, while shining fresh light on contemporary India and the world we live in.” Professor Rosie Thomas, Centre for Research and Education in Arts and Media (CREAM), College of Design, Creative and Digital Industries, University of Westminster
Stardust: Cinematic Archives at the End of the World
by Hannah GoodwinAn exploration of the fundamental bond between cinema and the cosmos The advent of cinema occurred alongside pivotal developments in astronomy and astrophysics, including Albert Einstein&’s theories of relativity, all of which dramatically altered our conception of time and provided new means of envisioning the limits of our world. Tracing the many aesthetic, philosophical, and technological parallels between these fields, Stardust explores how cinema has routinely looked toward the cosmos to reflect our collective anxiety about a universe without us. Employing a &“cosmocinematic gaze,&” Hannah Goodwin uses the metaphorical frameworks from astronomy to posit new understandings of cinematic time and underscore the role of light in generating archives for an uncertain future. Surveying a broad range of works, including silent-era educational films, avant-garde experimental works, and contemporary blockbusters, she carves out a distinctive area of film analysis that extends its reach far beyond mainstream science fiction to explore films that reckon with a future in which humans are absent. This expansive study details the shared affinities between cinema and the stars in order to demonstrate how filmmakers have used cosmic imagery and themes to respond to the twentieth century&’s moments of existential dread, from World War I to the atomic age to our current moment of environmental collapse. As our outlook on the future continues to change, Stardust illuminates the promise of cinema to bear witness to humanity&’s fragile existence within the vast expanse of the universe.