The Story of Film

‘Cousins has carved out a niche as the great chronicler of the medium’ - Mark Kermode

‘An achievement of unparalleled proportions’ - The White Review

This fully updated edition offers new chapters on world cinema and technology, taking on recent releases such as Jordan Peele’s Us , Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman , Xavier Dolan’s Mommy and Leo Carax’s Holy Motors among many others.

The Story of Film pays homage to the radical thinkers who have shaped our cinematic landscapes and celebrates the iconic films that continue to have an impact on what we watch in the twenty-first century.

An updated edition of a seminal text, complete with new chapters, this is a compelling and accessible exploration of cinematic innovation, style and the cultural impact of film worldwide. An unparalleled introduction to the medium that, 25 years later, continues to fascinate and astound.

As well as covering the great American films and film-makers, The Story of Film explores cinema in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australasia and South America, and shows how cinematic ideas and techniques cross national boundaries. Clearly written, and illustrated with over 400 stills, including numerous sequences explaining how scenes work, The Story of Film is essential reading for both film students and moviegoers alike.