The Rough Guide to Film Musicals 1

by David Parkinson

The perfect companion to cinema''s most spectacular genre, The Rough Guide to Film Musicals reveals how an escapist entertainment became Hollywood''s most ingenious art form. From such enduring classics as Singin'' In The Rain and West Side Story to recent successes like Evita and Chicago, this book reviews 50 essential musicals, including several forgotten gems. There are profiles of musical icons such as Fred Astaire, Judy Garland and George Gershwin and details of musicals from around the world. Complete with a list of the best soundtracks, websites and books for further reading, this Rough Guide takes a behind the scenes look at this magical movie genre.

Genres: Film, Music, Media Tie In

336 pages, Paperback

First published July 16, 2007

Reviews

[David Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book on musicals may look small but it is packed with information. The author discusses the origins of musical, some history, then detailed information on the top 50 musicals of the 20th century. There are also separate sections on talented musical stars and international musicals.

The details on individual musicals are not a rehash from elsewhere. There are lots of details and opinions The book also has some black and white photos scattered throughout. My only complaint is that the font is a bit small and the page numbers are light blue in color against a white background, which makes it hard to see.

[Robert Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book. I love a musical. Some of an eclectic collection. The downplay of MacDonald And Eddy was strange.

[Gina G · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good reference guide for musical fans the writing is not quite as snappy for me though, I can't digest a lot of info in one reading unfortunately!