The American Cinema
In 'The American Cinema,' Andrew Sarris presents a groundbreaking exploration of the evolution of American filmmaking, detailing the creative triumphs and struggles of its visionary directors. This insightful work organizes American films into categories, shedding light on the artistry behind the camera and the cultural impact of each movement. Sarris introduces the concept of the auteur theory, arguing that the director is the pivotal creative force behind a film. With sharp critiques and vivid anecdotes, he invites readers to reconsider their understanding of cinema as an artistic medium. Embark on a journey through the reels of time and discover the soul of American film like never before.
By Andrew Sarris
Published: 1996
Start Listening
Play Preview
You might also like →
Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook
Gary Vaynerchuk
Life's Golden Ticket
Brendon Burchard
The Beauty Myth
Naomi Wolf
Here Comes Everybody
Clay Shirky
Amusing Ourselves to Death
Neil Postman
Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!
Armadillo
William Boyd
Moonwalking with Einstein
Joshua Foer
The Facebook Effect
David Kirkpatrick
Peopleware
Tom DeMarco, Timothy R. Lister
Switch
Chip Heath, Dan Heath
Powershift
Daymond John, Daniel Paisner
The Penguin Russian Course
Nina F. Potapova
Mediated
Thomas de Zengotita
Hardcore History
Dan Carlin
Dead People Suck
Laurie Kilmartin
Tess of the D'Urbervilles
Thomas Hardy
The Clock Of The Long Now
Stewart Brand
Simulation and Its Discontents
Sherry Turkle
Company Commander
Charles Brown MacDonald
Who Cares?
Joan C. Tronto
Radical Hope
Carolina De Robertis
MAN WHO WAS THURSDAY
G. K. Chesterton
Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now
Jaron Lanier
Dead Wake
Erik Larson
The Uninhabitable Earth
David Wallace-Wells
The Broken Ladder
Keith Payne
Private Truths, Public Lies
Timur Kuran
The Adventures of Pinocchio
C. Collodi, Carlo Lorenzini
The Last Black Unicorn
Tiffany Haddish
Book Collections you might like →
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Book Recommendations
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a U.S. Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district. She gained national attention after winning her seat in 2018 at the age of 29, making her one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies, advocating for issues such as Medicare for All, climate change action, and economic justice. She has become a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and uses social media to engage with constituents and the public. Her rise from grassroots activism to Congress has inspired many young people to get involved in politics.
View Collection
Brian Koppelman's Book Recommendations
Brian Koppelman is an acclaimed American screenwriter, producer, and director, best known for co-writing the iconic film "Rounders" and co-creating the hit television series "Billions." His sharp narrative skills and deep understanding of complex characters have made him a standout figure in contemporary storytelling. Koppelman’s podcast, "The Moment," where he interviews artists and creators about pivotal moments in their careers, has also garnered a dedicated following. Additionally, his work on the screenplay for "Ocean's Thirteen" further cemented his reputation in Hollywood. Koppelman continues to influence the entertainment industry with his innovative writing and keen insights into human behavior.
View Collection
Charlie Munger's Book Recommendations
Charlie Munger is an American investor, businessman, and philanthropist, best known as the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, where he partners with Warren Buffett. Renowned for his insights on investment strategies and mental models, Munger has significantly influenced the world of finance. His notable literary contributions include "Poor Charlie's Almanack," a compilation of his speeches and writings that distill his wisdom on decision-making and business principles. Munger's work emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary thinking and continuous learning. Beyond his financial acumen, he is celebrated for his charitable efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
View Collection
Ana Fabrega's Book Recommendations
Ana Lorena Fabrega is an innovative educator and author passionate about reimagining education. Known as “Ms. Fab,” she is the Chief Evangelist at Synthesis, an education startup inspired by the problem-solving and collaboration model used at SpaceX. She advocates for alternative learning methods, encouraging curiosity and creativity in students. Ana's work emphasizes the importance of engaging young learners in real-world challenges and critical thinking. She also shares insights on education reform through her popular newsletter, Fab Fridays.
View Collection
Ken Burns's Book Recommendations
Ken Burns is an American filmmaker and documentarian renowned for his in-depth explorations of American history. Burns is best known for his signature style of using archival footage, photographs, and voiceover narration to tell compelling historical narratives. His works include The Civil War, Baseball, Jazz, The Vietnam War, and The Roosevelts, which have garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards. Burns has a unique ability to bring history to life, making it accessible and engaging to a wide audience. He has received several Emmy Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. Burns is also known for his meticulous research and dedication to accuracy, often spending years on a single project. His documentaries not only educate but also offer deep reflections on the American experience, covering subjects like war, politics, culture, and social justice. Burns' influence extends far beyond filmmaking, as he continues to shape how people understand and engage with history.
View Collection
Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations
Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.
View Collection
Alex Blumberg's Book Recommendations
Alex Blumberg is a renowned American journalist, radio producer, and entrepreneur, best known for co-founding the podcast company Gimlet Media. He gained significant acclaim for his work on the groundbreaking radio show "This American Life," where his storytelling prowess earned him several prestigious awards. Blumberg's notable achievements include his pivotal role in creating the popular podcast "Startup," which provides an insider's look at launching a business. His contributions have significantly shaped the modern podcasting landscape, blending compelling narratives with entrepreneurial insights. Additionally, Blumberg's innovative approach to audio storytelling continues to inspire new generations of content creators.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Ben Stiller's Book Recommendations
Ben Stiller is a renowned American actor, comedian, and filmmaker, celebrated for his contributions to both film and literature. While best known for his work in movies such as "Zoolander" and "Meet the Parents," Stiller has also made his mark as an author. His book "Feel This Book: An Essential Guide to Self-Empowerment, Spiritual Supremacy, and Sexual Satisfaction," co-written with Janeane Garofalo, showcases his wit and unique perspective. Stiller's influence extends beyond cinema, as he deftly combines humor and insight in his literary work. His multifaceted career underscores his versatility and impact on contemporary entertainment and literature.
View Collection
Edward Norton's Book Recommendations
Edward Norton is an American actor and filmmaker known for his roles in films like Fight Club, American History X, and The Incredible Hulk. Norton is highly regarded for his method acting and ability to portray complex, morally ambiguous characters. He has received multiple Academy Award nominations for his work, and his directorial debut, Motherless Brooklyn, was critically acclaimed. Beyond acting, Norton is a committed environmentalist and social activist, serving on the boards of several organizations focused on sustainability and renewable energy. His blend of talent, activism, and intellectual curiosity has made him a significant figure in both Hollywood and philanthropy.
View Collection
Ellen DeGeneres's Book Recommendations
Ellen DeGeneres is an acclaimed American comedian, television host, actress, and writer. She gained immense popularity with her Emmy-winning daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which debuted in 2003 and ran for 19 successful seasons. In the literary world, DeGeneres has authored several bestselling books, including "My Point... And I Do Have One" and "Seriously... I'm Kidding," which showcase her signature humor and candid storytelling. Her work has significantly contributed to discussions on LGBTQ+ issues, especially following her historic coming out in 1997. DeGeneres is also known for her philanthropic efforts, frequently using her platform to support various charitable causes.
View Collection
Emily Blunt's Book Recommendations
Emily Blunt is an acclaimed British actress known for her versatility and powerful performances in film and television. Though not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, her portrayal of literary characters in film adaptations, such as "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins, has brought literary works to a broader audience. Her role in this film was highly praised and showcased her ability to bring depth to complex characters. Blunt has received numerous awards, including a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award, solidifying her status in the entertainment industry. Her contributions extend beyond acting, as she continues to inspire through her diverse roles and commitment to her craft.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection
Anna Khachiyan's Book Recommendations
Anna Khachiyan is a prominent cultural critic, writer, and co-host of the popular podcast "Red Scare," which delves into contemporary cultural and political issues with a provocative and often contrarian perspective. Born in Moscow and raised in the United States, Khachiyan has garnered a significant following for her sharp commentary and insightful critiques. She holds a background in art history, which informs her nuanced views on modern society and culture. In addition to her podcasting success, Khachiyan has contributed to various publications, lending her voice to discussions on art, politics, and social dynamics. Her work continues to influence and challenge prevailing narratives in the literary and cultural landscape.
View CollectionFrequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.