Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #530392 in Books
• Published on: 2003-08-19
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 88 pages

Synopsis
"Rio Bravo" forms a loose trilogy with "Only Angels Have Wings" (1939) and "To Have and Have Not" (1944), which treats key Hawks themes of self-respect and friendship with exquisite subtlety, comedy and tenderness. "Rio Bravo", however, is the definitive rendition of these themes. For Robin Wood, it may be the greatest American film, the epitome of the collaborative art of the studio system, characterized by marvellous performances from Hollywood legends and relative newcomers alike; and by Hawks's complete understanding of classical filmmaking techniques.

Customer Reviews

Thoughtful Appraisal
You might not always agree with the author's assessments and comments, but there is a lovely warmth which flows through this book, that allows you to question the author's appraisal whilst reassessing your own. This is no academically rigid 'this is the way it is', style of criticism... but something more akin to a quiet discussion of a much-loved, mutually-appreciated classic film, whilst sitting around the friendly glow of a campfire. I liked it. Very much.

Brilliant guideline
I recently bought the BFI Rio Bravo book by Robin Wood, whose work I have always respected. Having studied film at Uni, I've seen many of Hawks' films and read many of Robin Wood's books and this one does not disappoint.
Rio Bravo is one of my favourite films but I must confess that I was first drawn to it because the cast included one of my favourite entertainers, Dean Martin. However, the whole cast of this film is brilliant and Robin Wood's in-depth exploration of Howard Hawks' work is also an entertainment in itself. Not everyone can be a film critic, unfortunately - I only wish I could be but for me, Robin's book was un-put-downable.
I urge all film buffs to buy it!! I have several of these BFI film companions and find them invaluable. I don't always agree with their content but on this occasion, I do. Well done, Robin!
10/10.