David Mitchell sets out on a vigorous but impeccably polite investigation into the confusing world of manners. Are they really in decline, as many would have us believe? Or are we just throwing off the shackles of the Victorian obsession with etiquette? Over the course of the series, David eats his lunchtime sandwiches with children in a primary school, and later goes to a street market to see manners - good and bad - in action. He explores where our manners come from with Professors Steven Pinker from Harvard University and the author Henry Hitchings. What do we mean by 'civility' and 'good manners' in public places? Why are people still pinching vicars' bottoms, and what can the state do to improve standards of public behaviour? And, David asks, how is the digital age changing our sense of public space?Produced by Chris Ledgard. Read more

Unlock the Magic with Mind-Blowing Facts!This collectible illustrated book will make a fantastic gift for Disney fans, both women and men of all ages. Whether you're a parent looking for a fun way to bond with your kids, an adult who simply loves the magic of Disney, or a trivia buff seeking a challenge, this book is sure to delight and entertain.Inside this encyclopedia of Disney facts, you'll discover: Mind-blowing secrets about your favorite characters, films, and parks. Did you know Walt Disney originally wanted to name Mickey Mouse Mortimer?Behind-the-scenes stories that will transport you to the heart of Disney magic. Did you know that Aladdin's character design was inspired by Tom Cruise?Surprising historical tidbits that will deepen your appreciation for Disney's legacy. Did you know the idea for Frozen was inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale from over 70 years ago?Here's how you can use this guide: Family game nights: Challenge your loved ones to a Disney trivia showdown and see who reigns supreme.Quiet evenings at home: Curl up with a cup of hot cocoa and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Disney.Car rides and waiting rooms: Keep the kids entertained with awesome facts and trivia that will make the time fly by.This book is the perfect tool to pass the time, relax, and connect with loved ones, making it an excellent gift for Christmas, birthdays, or any special occasion. Whether you're reading it cover to cover or picking out chapters that appeal to you, you're guaranteed to discover something exciting about the world of Disney and Disneyland.So sit back, grab a pair of Mickey Mouse ears, and get ready to learn some truly interesting facts that will leave you enchanted!This book is an independent exploration and celebration of Disney, not officially endorsed or affiliated with The Walt Disney Company. Read more

For centuries, one man’s predictions of doom, disaster, and destiny have captivated the world. Nostradamus, who has become a legend, inscribed cryptic verses shrouded in mystery, interpreted across the ages that may have all come true: wars, sieges, the fall of nations, the collapse of Europe, the rise of AI, apocalyptic floods, firestorms, and the rise of a third Antichrist who would bring about World War III. Are these the final days of humanity, or can we change our fate? Read more

Superman and Comic Book Brand Continuity traces the development of comic book continuity through the case study of Superman, examining the character’s own evolution across several media, including comics, radio, television, and film. Superman’s relationship with continuity illustrates a key feature of the way in which people in western societies construct stories about themselves. In this respect, the book is a study of narrative and how comic book continuity reflects the way that, in wider western post-enlightenment culture, storytelling shapes the common sense and received wisdoms that influence how we perceive "reality." The scope of the analysis extends from Superman’s creation in the late 1930s to the recent films Man of Steel (2013) and Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), as well as the current comic book reboot Rebirth (2016). Read more

"A realist with a sense of humor, Chasse is both stringent and encouraging as she covers every aspect of creating a successful production." —Booklist starred review How to Make and Distribute a Documentary without Losing Your Mind or Going BrokeDocumentary filmmaking requires more than just a passion for the subject, whether it be one’s personal story or that of someone else, a historical event or a startling discovery, a political movement or a heinous crime. Making a documentary and getting it in front of an audience requires determination, careful planning, money, and a strong production team. With over thirty years of experience in filmmaking, author Betsy Chasse mentors readers every step of the way with a down-to-earth approach and invaluable advice. Chapters cover topics such as:Choosing a SubjectDeveloping a Business PlanSecuring Financial BackingAssembling a Production TeamNailing Interviews and Shooting B-RollGetting through Post-ProductionDistributing and Marketing the FilmBoth novices and experienced filmmakers will benefit from this all-inclusive guide. With the right knowledge, persistence, and The Documentary Filmmaking Master Class in their camera bags, readers will not only turn their visions into reality, they’ll be able to share the results with others and navigate the process with confidence. Read more

It was believed that September 11th would make certain kinds of films obsolete, such as action thrillers crackling with explosions or high-casualty blockbusters where the hero escapes unscathed. While the production of these films did ebb, the full impact of the attacks on Hollywood's creative output is still taking shape. Did 9/11 force filmmakers and screenwriters to find new methods of storytelling? What kinds of movies have been made in response to 9/11, and are they factual? Is it even possible to practice poetic license with such a devastating, broadly felt tragedy?Stephen Prince is the first scholar to trace the effect of 9/11 on the making of American film. From documentaries like Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004) to zombie flicks, and from fictional narratives such as The Kingdom (2007) to Mike Nichols's Charlie Wilson's War (2007), Prince evaluates the extent to which filmmakers have exploited, explained, understood, or interpreted the attacks and the Iraq War that followed, including incidents at Abu Ghraib. He begins with pre-9/11 depictions of terrorism, such as Alfred Hitchcock's Sabotage (1936), and follows with studio and independent films that directly respond to 9/11. He considers documentary portraits and conspiracy films, as well as serial television shows (most notably Fox's 24) and made-for-TV movies that re-present the attacks in a broader, more intimate way. Ultimately Prince finds that in these triumphs and failures an exciting new era of American filmmaking has taken shape. Read more

The Czechoslovak New Wave was originally published in 1985 and was quickly established as the world's leading authoritative English-language text. A study of the most significant movement in post-war Central and East European cinemas, it examines the origins of a movement against the political and cultural developments of the 1960s leading to the Prague Spring of 1968. Peter Hames also summarizes key aspects of Czech and Slovak histories between the wars and in the 1940s and 1950s. Directors discussed include Milos Forman, Jan Svankmajer, Jiri Menzel, Jan Nemec. Read more

Dive beneath the surface of the icy world to discover the untold stories of Earth’s most fascinating birds—penguins—as you've never seen them before.In Secrets of the Penguins, acclaimed wildlife filmmaker Bertie Gregory leads readers on a breathtaking journey across deserts, cities, volcanic islands, and frozen frontiers, capturing the resilience, intelligence, and surprising personalities of penguins in their natural habitats. Drawing on exclusive behind-the-scenes access to National Geographic’s landmark series, this book reveals the extraordinary lengths Gregory and his team went to—facing sea lions, snowstorms, and sleepless nights—to bring the secret lives of these birds to light.From emperor penguins forging lifelong bonds on Antarctic ice to daring rockhoppers braving crashing waves and formidable predators, this richly illustrated volume combines powerful storytelling with stunning imagery and scientific insight. It’s a celebration of nature’s endurance, a meditation on the relationship between humans and wildlife, and a must-have for animal lovers, documentary fans, and conservationists alike.Join the expedition. Secrets of the Penguins: Exploring the Unseen Lives Captured by Bertie Gregory invites you to waddle into the wild, where every flap, dive, and call carries meaning. Get your copy today! Read more

Few bands have ever captured the imagination of music lovers quite like Led Zeppelin. Their explosive sound, larger-than-life personas, and groundbreaking influence reshaped rock forever. When news broke that Becoming Led Zeppelin, the first official, band-approved documentary was in the works, fans around the world eagerly awaited what promised to be the definitive film on the band’s origins. But despite its highly anticipated premiere, the film has remained shrouded in mystery, leaving many questions unanswered. In The Making of Becoming Led Zeppelin, we take a deep dive into the long and winding journey of this elusive documentary. From director Bernard MacMahon’s visionary approach to the film’s stunning archival footage and exclusive interviews, this unofficial guide unpacks everything that makes Becoming Led Zeppelin a cinematic event like no other. Explore the stories behind the legendary band’s early days, Jimmy Page’s rise as a session prodigy, Robert Plant’s journey to becoming the voice of a generation, John Paul Jones’s quiet genius, and John Bonham’s thunderous drumming that shook the world. Delve into the filmmaking choices that set this documentary apart, the cinematic strengths and weaknesses that shaped its reception, and the puzzling delays that have kept it from a wide release. Whether you're a die-hard Zeppelin fan or a documentary enthusiast, The Making of Becoming Led Zeppelin offers an in-depth, immersive look at a film that has already become the stuff of rock legend. This is more than a guide, it’s an exploration of the myths, the music, and the mystery that continue to define Led Zeppelin’s enduring legacy. Read more

". . . a valuable and important book . . ." ―The Year's Work in Critical and Cultural TheoryRepresenting Reality is the first book to offer a conceptual overview of documentary filmmaking practice. It addresses numerous social issues and how they are presented to the viewer by means of style, rhetoric, and narrative technique. The volume poses questions about the relationship of the documentary tradition to power, the body, authority, knowledge, and our experience of history. This study advances the pioneering work of Nichols's earlier book, Ideology and the Image."[Nichols] has written a road-block of a book which reconfigures the debate on the documentary at a new level of sophistication and complexity which can only be ignored at the risk of ignoring the whole area of documentary film." ―Sight and Sound" . . . the most important book on documentary film yet published." ―Canadian Journal of Film Studies Read more

Documentary films are the rock and roll of our times. Why are they made? Who are in the tribe of documentary film-makers? Do their films really change the world? Eighteen years ago, Nick Fraser created BBC Storyville, producing films that won Oscars, BAFTAs, and Peabody Awards. He found film-makers from all across the world covering important subjects in documentaries. In Say What Happened he describes the frenzied, intense world of documentary film-making, tracing its history back to the early pioneers, such as Dziga Vertov and his ground-breaking Man with a Movie Camera. The book deals with the British documentary tradition founded by John Grierson, and discusses the work of American masters such as the Maysles brothers, Frederick Wiseman and D.A. Pennebaker, as well as Europeans such as Marcel Ophuls, Claude Lanzmann, Chris Marker, and Werner Herzog. He interviews acclaimed documentary film-makers and discusses the work of Ken Burns, Errol Morris, and Joshua Oppenheimer, among others across the globe, as well as listing his top one-hundred documentaries, and where readers can watch them. In a world beset with 'fake news', he argues documentaries are better at getting at the verities about life and death and that the new journalism will come from films made using new technology. Read more

Think cheerleading is just pom-poms, "gimme an 'R,'" and pleated skirts? Not anymore. Take an exhilarating trip through the rough-and-tumble world of competitive college cheerleading.... College cheerleaders are extreme athletes who fly thirty feet in the air, build pyramids in which a single slip can send ten people crashing to the ground, and compete in National Championships that are won by hundredths of a point. Cheer! is a year-long odyssey into their universe, following three squads from tryouts to Nationals. Meet the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjack cheerleaders from Nacogdoches, Texas, who seem destined to win their fifth National Championship in a row -- until they are shaken by the departure of their longtime coach. Fall in love with the Southern University Jaguars from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, an African-American team hoping to raise the $17,000 needed to travel to Nationals and transform their near win several years ago into a Cinderella victory. Root for the University of Memphis All-Girl cheerleaders from Tennessee -- a team that continually struggles for the same respect Coed teams get -- when their quest for a national title is threatened by injuries and dropouts. Along the way, meet unforgettable characters like Sierra, a cheerleading prodigy who has never lost a competition; Doug, who is in his eighth year as a college cheerleader; and Casi, one of the few female bases who can lift another cheerleader on her own. These are people who risk horrifying injuries on a daily basis, battle demons like eating disorders and steroid use, and form intense bonds. In the immersive tradition of Friday Night Lights, Cheer! is a captivating, all-access journey into a deeply absorbing world. Read more

'This gripping book is destined to become THE book about Andrew Tate' Jon Ronson'A fascinating and disturbing investigation' Ian HislopThe behind-the-scenes story of a four-year investigation into Andrew Tate, exploring how a failed reality TV star turned accused organised criminal managed to become one of the most famous influencers in the world.In 2022, Andrew Tate went from a little-known kickboxer and failed reality TV star to a lifestyle icon for legions of men and boys, and a figure that would define a new era of misogyny. Tate started the year as a fringe internet celebrity, but by August he was the most googled man in the world. In that same month, Matt Shea and Jamie Tahsin gained access to his Bucharest compound and infamous War Room, making a documentary that would result in the first women coming forward to accuse him publicly of sexual and physical violence. Tate would end the year in a Romanian jail, facing charges of human trafficking, rape and being part of an organised crime group. But the investigations wouldn't stop there.Part Gonzo journalism, part masculinity rabbit hole, this book takes you on Shea and Tahsin's journey to reveal the dark secrets of Andrew Tate, the machine that brought him here, and the ideology he has unleashed on a generation of young men.'A sobering, strange and eye-opening look into the toxic manosphere. It should be required reading for anybody worried about the rise of incel culture and Andrew Tate' Zing Tsjeng'Rarely have I read anything so politically important that's also so gripping' Zoe Williams Read more

This classic anthology provides essential models for analyzing sound stylistics through the detailed study of critical sound films. Elisabeth Weis and John Belton carefully curate major essays from the world's most respected film historians, aestheticians, and theorists, including Douglas Gomery, Barry Salt, Rick Altman, Mary Ann Doane, S. M. Eisenstein, V. I. Pudovkin, René Clair, Béla Belázs, Siegfried Kracauer, Christian Metz, David Bordwell, Kristin Thompson, Noël Burch, and Arthur Knight. Their selections recount the innovations and triumphs of Ernst Lubitsch, Fritz Lang, Orson Welles, Alfred Hitchcock, Rouben Mamoulian, Dziga Vertov, Robert Bresson, Jean-Luc Godard, Robert Altman, and Francis Ford Coppola, among many others, and explicate the techniques and practices of sound filmmaking from initial recordings to final theater playback. Film Sound is the ideal companion for anyone seeking both a comprehensive introduction to the form and a rich survey of its historical and global evolution. Read more

Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality is the captivating story of a modern trailblazer who combined his love for technology with an unwavering devotion to faith. From a young age, Carlo stood out not just for his intelligence and talent with computers but for his deep compassion, kindness, and commitment to making the world a better place. This book takes you beyond the headlines and into the heart of Carlo’s journey, exploring his childhood, his passion for programming, his love for the Eucharist, and the profound wisdom he shared in his short but impactful life. Despite facing a terminal illness, he embraced his struggles with extraordinary grace, leaving behind a digital legacy that continues to inspire millions. Through rich storytelling and insightful reflections, Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality unveils the lessons he left behind on faith, purpose, and the power of using modern tools for a greater mission. Whether you are drawn to his story by curiosity, faith, or the desire for inspiration, this book offers a powerful message for readers of all backgrounds. Step into Carlo’s world, discover his roadmap to reality, and findinspiration for your own journey. Get your copy today! Read more

For nearly two decades, Documentary Storytelling has reached filmmakers and filmgoers worldwide with its unique focus on the key ingredient for success in the global documentary marketplace: storytelling. As this revised, updated fifth edition makes clear, nonfiction storytellingis not limited to character-driven journeys, but instead encompasses the diverse ways in which today’s top documentarians reach audiences with content that is creative, original, and often inspirational, all without sacrificing the integrity that gives documentary its power. This book is filled with practical advice for writers, producers, directors, editors, cinematographers, and others committed to reality-based filmmaking that seeks to reach audiences, raise awareness, address social issues, illuminate the human condition, and even entertain.In this new edition, Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and author Sheila Curran Bernard offers:a closer look at the way ethical nonfiction filmmakers take creative, authorial leaps while also remaining transparent with audiences;new tools for understanding how documentaries are structured, how they may rearrange time for storytelling effect, and how a simple narrative throughline can convey complexity without being a conventional "hero’s journey";new conversations with filmmakers and educators including Dawn Porter, Madison Hamburg, Tracy Heather Strain, June Cross, Heidi Gronauer, and Julie Casper Roth, and another look at conversations with Stanley Nelson and Orlando von Einsiedel.Please visit the book’s website, available at www.documentarystorytelling.com, for further information, related articles, and more. Read more

Dziga Vertov was one of the greatest innovators of Soviet cinema. The radical complexity of his work―in both sound and silent forms―has given it a central place within contemporary theoretical inquiry. Vertov's writings, collected here, range from calculated manifestos setting forth his heroic vision of film's potential to dark ruminations on the inactivity forced upon him by the bureaucratization of the Soviet state. Read more

Whether you are a history buff, are still learning about world history, or just love documentaries, this is your essential guide to documentaries in the history genre. Over 1000 videos are listed, complete with brief descriptions, and arranged in historical order, so you can zero in on a major period, event, or person, and pick a documentary about it. These span from the beginning of the Universe to modern times. Every teacher and homeschooler should keep a copy of this on hand. You are sure to discover something new... and learn history along the way. The only question is: Have you seen them all? Get the popcorn ready. Read more

A GREAT 48th or 49th BIRTHDAY GIFT for anyone born in 1977 who is now celebrating a birthday, marriage, or an anniversary. Ideal for someone who is 48 in 2025 or 49 in 2026Looking for a heartfelt and unique way to honor a loved one’s birthday? 1977 A Year To Remember is the ideal gift to make their special day truly unforgettable. With engaging stories, beautifully crafted chapters, and nostalgic charm, this keepsake brings the past to life in a way that will captivate and inspire.Whether for someone who lived through the era or a history enthusiast with a love for the golden age, this book offers a thoughtful journey through the moments that shaped 1977. From groundbreaking innovations to timeless music and fashion, it’s more than just a history book—it’s a celebration of life’s milestones and memories.Don’t miss out on this perfect tribute! Celebrate the legacy of 1977 by gifting this timeless keepsake.Inside This Remarkable Book:Chapter 1: In the NewsStep into the headlines and uncover the events that shaped the world in 1977.Chapter 2: Hollywood & Global CinemaRelive the golden age of the silver screen, exploring the magic and allure of film in 1977.Chapter 3: The Sound of 1977Celebrate the rhythms that defined a generation, from jazz and radio hits to cultural milestones.Chapter 4: Sports in 1977Journey into the world of sports and witness unforgettable victories and iconic moments.Chapter 5: Fashion and Pop CultureExplore the styles, trends, and cultural phenomena that brought flair to everyday life.Chapter 6: Innovations, Automobiles, and TechnologyDiscover the ingenuity and advancements that propelled the world forward in 1977.Chapter 7: The Cost of LivingTake a nostalgic look at what life cost in 1977, from daily essentials to indulgent treats.Chapter 8: Notable Births and DeathsReflect on the individuals whose lives began or left lasting legacies in this pivotal year.Chapter 9: Through the Eyes of YouthRekindle the joys and memories of growing up in a simpler time.Why Choose This Tribute?This isn’t just a history book—it’s a treasure trove of memories, stories, and experiences from 1977. With thoughtfully curated pages, it offers an engaging way to revisit a year filled with historic achievements and timeless charm. Whether for family, friends, or yourself, it’s a delightful way to relive a transformative era. Order your copy today and let the memories of 1977 shine! Read more

Through conversations held with fifteen of the most accomplished contemporary cinematographers, the authors explore the working world of the person who controls the visual look and style of a film. This reissue includes a new foreword by cinematographer John Bailey and a new preface by the authors, which bring this classic guide to cinematography, in print for more than twenty-five years, into the twenty-first century. Read more