Review: Surprisingly great read
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 12, 2013
SCARFACE THE ULTMATE GUIDE-5 STARSScarface the Ultimate Guide is just that, "The Ultimate". Author Damian Stevenson has solidified himself as one of the great film media mavens. Stevenson dissects the film and reconstructs it with a passionate eye which leaves no stone unturned in presenting the rich texture of the films behind the scene relationships and collaborations; as well as the on screen chemistry of the cast and crew.Until now, no one has come close to examining this film in such detail. Stevenson takes you back to the great Howard Hawks film starring George Raft and Paul Muni, of the same name, Scarface, which is based loosely on the notorious gangster Al Capone and explains the intertwining of the two films. He delves into the perceived factors behind the remake's initial lack of public acceptance and critical acclaim; to its becoming the template by which all other films in the genre' are judged.Stevenson explores every aspect of the film, yet does so in a way that is entertaining and not at all starched and stuffy, as most in depth dissections of film tend to be. But just because it's entertaining doesn't mean he's given this subject the tabloid gossip column treatment either. This is a definitive guide and is bound to become a must read of every serious film student.I thoroughly enjoyed the book and recommend it whole heartedly to every film buff and serious student. I believe this quote best sums up Damian Stevenson's skills as a writer."The true measure of an author's talent is gauged by the passion with which he has written."~Author Cliff Roberts