Everything Is Cinema: The Working Life of Jean-Luc Godard
Starred Review. Comprehensive and fascinating, this critical biography of one of the leading filmmakers of the French New Wave, Jean-Luc Godard, byNew Yorkereditor and film critic Brody offers the significant events and achievements of the cinematic innovator who combined an eye-opening concoction of art, politics, music, personal values and social mores. The author reveals an isolated yet driven creative genius who rises from writing articles for the pioneeringCahiers du Cinémamagazine with Truffaut, Rivette and Rohmer to soaring early successes with his filmsBreathless,Contempt,Masculine Feminine,A Married Womanto the later controversial gems,First Name: Carmen,Hail MaryandDetective. Godard, according to Brody, compares in critical importance to Picasso in his artistry, as the director's puzzling complexity is revealed through scores of interviews with family, colleagues and crew. Throughout the book, the key personal elements of Godard's chaotic love life provide added spark. This is a completely enjoyable and revealing account of an enigmatic director whose singular creativity will not allow him to make commercial compromises.(May)Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.