“This lively, funny, moving history of a movie studio and the people who made it feels uncannily like … an Ealing comedy.” Martin Scorsese

A behind-the-scenes account of life at Ealing Studios – one of the great cinematic success stories of post-war Britain, and a byword for a particular strain of comic film-making that continues to inspire imitators over half a century on.

This is the only full narrative history of Ealing, focusing on its output in the 1940s and ’50s, when the movies made there were in astonishing (and revealing) synchronicity with the national mood. Told through the memories of the people who worked and performed there, The Secret Life of Ealing Studios explores how a small group of maverick film-makers, some of Britain’s most fondly-remembered movie stars, and a lot of unsung backroom boys and girls created pictures that presented a unique and enduring view of British identity, and which have since become classics.

The films include such evergreens as Hue and Cry, Passport to Pimlico, Kind Hearts and Coronets, Whisky Galore, The Lavender Hill Mob, The Man in the White Suit and The Ladykillers, along with war films such as The Cruel Sea.

At the heart of the story is the figure of Michael Balcon – perhaps the closest Britain has ever come to producing a movie mogul in the Hollywood mould – and iconic actors such as Peter Sellers, Alec Guinness, Margaret Rutherford and Sid James.

Read more

Official Aliens search-and-find puzzle book, based on the movie, featuring a host of highly detailed full-colour illustrations by artist Kevin Crossley set in familiar film locations.

As one of the most highly regarded movie sequels of all time, Aliens quickly embedded itself in the minds of cinemagoers around the world when it was released in 1986.

Now relive the film in a whole new way in this fun search-and-find puzzle book, where you can test your powers of observation through 14 scenes inspired by the classic film, each one rendered in incredible detail by artist Kevin Crossley. Rescue trapped colonists! Help the marines spot the aliens! Defeat the Alien Queen! Do you have what it takes to Find The Xenomorph?

Read more

Harry Potter Page to Screen: Revised and Expanded now has more pages devoted to the legacy of the Harry Potter films. In addition to the complete history of all eight Harry Potter films, the book now explores the theme parks in Florida, California and Japan, the sets and props in Leavesden, England and the House of MinaLima, founded by the graphic designers on all of the films, and located in London. With 1200 photographs, sketches, and diagrams, the book provides unbridled access to every aspect of the film-making process. It tells the stories behind each individual film and covers the design and technology behind all the astounding effects. This book pays homage to how one film became eight, how a few months became a decade, and how one author’s fantasy became the project of many individuals’ lifetimes-told by the people who were there, the people who made the magic real. Harry Potter Page to Screen: Revised and Expanded will start from the very beginning, describing how the book was optioned, the casting of Harry, Ron and Hermione, and the assembling of a creative team with the vision to tackle a world we had previously seen only in our imaginations. Interviews, quotes, and stories from the directors, producers, screenwriters, and actors discuss the making of all eight films at length, including the last film, film number 8, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2. Daniel Radcliffe and his personal narrative from set to set is used as the life line that connects all aspects of this memoir, giving structure to the many voices of the Harry Potter family who orate this tale. All of the movies were filmed at the Leavesden Studio in Hertfordshire, England and these pages describe how the Leavesden family dealt with numerous cast, crew, and production dramas, replacements, technical difficulties and countless narrative and visual decisions. This book will touch on subjects such as J.K. Rowling’s private comments to her young cast, the impact of Richard Harris’ (the original Dumbledore) death on the cast and crew, the effects of 9/11 on the Leavesden family (during the filming of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets), the reality of “growing up Potter” for the young starlets who experienced their adolescence on a hugely public stage, and reflections from the cast and crew on the end of the film series. In addition to stories on and off set, Harry Potter Page to Screen: Revised and Expanded pays tribute to the stunning physical, visual and technological genius that went into making an unbelievable story believable, showcasing more than a decade’s worth of art and special effects, including never-before-seen photos of the costumes, sets, props, and creatures, as well as early concept art, drawings and designs. The book is fully supported by Warner Bros. and is being put together with the same group as Harry Potter Film Wizardry: The Updated Edition. While Film Wizardry provided a whimsical and informative scrapbook for Harry Potter fans and was published prior to the release of the last film, this mammoth book gives readers a more complete account of the entire film-making process, designed in a more classical, sophisticated package. Harry Potter Page to Screen: Revised and Expanded is a publishing event. This book is the Bible for everything Potter and will stand as the most complete and final visual history of the Harry Potter movie story ever to be published.

Read more

Official companion book to the most recent trilogy of Halloween films featuring behind-the-scenes photography and interviews with cast and crew.

Four decades after the original Halloween took the world by storm, Miramax, Blumhouse Productions and Trancas International bring a terrifying new trilogy of films in the iconic horror franchise to cinemas.

In these direct sequels to John Carpenter’s 1978 movie, Laurie Strode and the residents of Haddonfield once again fall prey to escaped killer Michael Myers. As the police desperately try to track him down, Laurie, along with her family, prepares to face her murderous nemesis one more time in a confrontation 40 years in the making…

The making of this much-anticipated movie trilogy is covered in fascinating detail in this official companion book. The creative processes behind the stunts, costumes, production design and make-up effects are revealed through interviews with the cast and crew, while captivating on-set photography captures the shooting of the key scenes and action set-pieces. A must for all horror fans, Halloween 2018–2022: The Official Making of the Films reveals the method behind the terror.

Read more

His classic films illuminated everyone’s childhood. The theme parks are on every tourist itinerary. The movie empire is one of Hollywood’s biggest. Walt Disney is one of the few men who unquestionably changed our culture. And Neal Gabler is the first author to have had complete access to the Disney Archives, enabling him to write the definitive biography of this remarkable man.

Gabler charts Disney’s journey from running a fledgling studio with short cartoons featuring Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, to the reinvention of animation with full-length films like Snow White, Pinocchio, Bambi and Dumbo. Chronicling Walt’s profligacy and expansionism, as well as his obsessive perfectionism when working on the briefest of sequences in Fantasia, Gabler describes how it was left to Walt’s brother Roy to keep the business solvent.

The successes speak for themselves – Disney then moved beyond animation with huge hits like Mary Poppins, and mixed utopianism and merchandising to conceive the world’s first modern theme park, Disneyland. In addition to the towering achievements, Gabler shows the dark side of Walt Disney – ruthless towards long-serving staff, cavalier with contracts, neglectful of his family – but also the vulnerability, born of loneliness and ill health, in an admirably balanced portrait.

Read more

Five Nights at Freddy’s fans won’t want to miss this collection of three chilling stories that will haunt even the bravest FNAF player…

Some secrets are better left hidden . . . A forbidden artifact from her fiancé’s past beckons to Selena. Jessica leads a double-life from her friends and coworkers in the children’s wing of a hospital. Maya can’t resist the temptation to explore an off-limits area of Freddy Fazbear’s Mega Pizzaplex. But in the world of Five Nights at Freddy’s, everything comes with a price to pay.

In this first volume, Five Nights at Freddy’s creator Scott Cawthon spins three sinister novella-length tales from uncharted corners of his series’ canon.

Readers beware: This collection of terrifying tales is enough to rattle even the most hardened Five Nights at Freddy’s fans.

Read more

Immerse yourself into the world of cinema and discover action-packed chases, epic journeys, and tear-jerking moments.

Get the popcorn popping and keep the movies coming! From box office hits and cult classics to romcoms and thrillers, this is your go-to guide to movies, directors, genres and styles.

This ultimate movie guide profiles more than 100 of the most significant films ever made and brings cinema to life in true blockbuster fashion. Discover the behind-the-scenes stories about timeless classics like Citizen Kane and The Godfather, and take a front-row seat at lavish blockbusters like Star Wars or Titanic.

– Lists of top 10 film recommendations
– What to watch boxes that explore specific plot lines, scenes, and images
– Trivia sections to test your knowledge on Oscar-winning movies, biggest flops and banned films
– Explains complex methods of film-making in familiar, non-technical jargon
– High-resolution photography and stills allow for a deeper understanding of the nature of film-making

Each page of this film book takes you on a journey through the ever-changing landscape of cinema – from Hollywood to Bollywood and everything in between. It includes every film-making school from across the globe, behind-the-scenes shots, profiles of 100 influential directors, and lists more than 100 of the greatest movies ever made!

Lights. Camera. Action!

Whether you enjoy art films or sci-fi, going to the cinema or watching movies on Netflix, The Film Book covers it all. It’s perfect for inspiring your next movie night!

This updated version covers the best films and directors of the last 10 years, along with new discoveries in the history of cinema since the last edition from 2011. It’s the ultimate gift for any film buff or critic.

Read more

The Star Wars galaxy is a dangerous place. Be prepared!

Would you survive in the spice mines of Kessel?

Could you escape from a giant space slug?

From tackling extreme weather and finding shelter, to avoiding social pitfalls, learn what to do to stay alive in a galaxy far, far away.

© & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.

Read more

* SPECIFICATIONS: 18-inch waving Mr. Meeseeks with fan in base to make him dance, wiggle, and shake for when you remember that “existence is pain” (batteries not included)
* ILLUSTRATED MINI BOOK INCLUDED: Learn more about your Mr. Meeseeks with this 32-page tongue-in-cheek “user manual” complete with full color illustrations
* PERFECT GIFT FOR Rick & Morty FANS: Display on a shelf, desk, or bookcase and show off your love of Mr. Meeseeks
* OFFICIALLY LICENSED: Authentic Rick and Morty collectible

PLEASE NOTE: This product can be powered by a 9-volt battery or by a specific AC adapter. (Battery nor AC adapter included with purchase.) Please read and follow the instructions included in the box to ensure optimal performance.

If using a battery:

* A rechargable Ni-MH battery is recommended for best performance and is a more cost-effective alternative to a common Alkaline (single-use) battery.
* If using an Alkaline battery, it must be NEW. Refer to product information sheet included in box for recommended brands.
* DO NOT use a Carbon-Zinc battery (often labeled “Heavy-Duty”). This type of battery cannot produce enough power to operate the motor.
* To get the most life out of the battery, use in intervals no greater than 5 to 10 minutes. Operating in this manner will yield approximately 45 minutes of use.
* If your tube guy begins to get stuck in a downward position, it is time to replace the battery or recharge if using a rechargeable battery.

If using an AC adapter, it must follow the below specifications:

* Input: AC 100-240V (50-60 Hz)
* Output: DC 9V (1A or 2A)

RICK AND MORTY and all related characters and elements © & ™ Cartoon Network.

Read more

A richly illustrated journey through the extraordinary cinematic worlds of beloved filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki A New York Magazine 2021 holiday gift guide pick For over four decades, Hayao Miyazaki has been enchanting audiences of all ages. His animated films, often featuring children navigating unfamiliar and challenging worlds, offer timeless explorations of youth and what it means to grow up. Celebrated and admired around the globe for his artistic vision, craftsmanship and deeply humanistic values, Miyazaki has influenced generations of artists. The universal appeal of his evocative natural settings and complex characters, many among them strong girls and young women, cuts across cultural boundaries. This book is published on the occasion of the 2021 inaugural exhibition at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, in collaboration with Studio Ghibli in Tokyo. It accompanies the first ever retrospective dedicated to the legendary filmmaker in North America and introduces hundreds of original production materials, including artworks never before seen outside of Studio Ghibli’s archives. Concept sketches, character designs, storyboards, layouts, backgrounds and production cels from his early career through all 11 of his feature films, including My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989), Princess Mononoke (1997), Spirited Away (2001) and Howl’s Moving Castle (2004), offer insight into Miyazaki’s creative process and masterful animation techniques.

Read more

Since 1985, Studio Ghibli has enchanted moviegoers with fantastic stories of adventure, magic, friendship, family, and most of all – the most delicious-looking animated food. Now you can create your own mouth-watering dishes with this book full of 50 unofficial, fan-created recipes!

From tantalising breakfasts and lunches to Japanese favourites like yakitori and onigiri, recipes include:

• Skillet bacon and eggs
• Ramen with ‘haaaam’!
• Herring and pumpkin pot pie
• Steamed red bean bao
• Salmon with beurre blanc sauce
• And more!

Perfect for fans of Japanese anime, manga, and comfort food cooking!

Read more

Celebrate the holidays with the Wizarding World’s delightful and fantastic creatures with a magical advent calendar and book filled with more than 25 surprises in Harry Potter: Holiday Magic: The Official Advent Calendar 2023 Edition.

Harry Potter: Holiday Magic: The Official Advent Calendar 2023 Edition celebrates the magic of Christmas with 25 days of exclusive surprises, keepsakes, and collectibles featuring the enchanting Wizarding World creatures you know and love.

DISCOVER MORE THAN 25 HARRY POTTER SURPRISES: Discover a new creature-themed holiday surprise every day! All 25 collectible items and holiday surprises waiting behind each door will make memorable gifts and bring the fantastical beasts of Harry Potter to life for the holidays

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: With 25 days of removable collectibles themed to the Harry Potter films, count down to Christmas by opening the door to a surprise each day from December 1st through 25th

THE PERFECT HARRY POTTER STOCKING STUFFER: This 25-day advent calendar will add a dash of Wizarding World magic to the holiday season for every Harry Potter fan

COMPLETE YOUR HARRY POTTER CHRISTMAS COLLECTION: Pair with Harry Potter: Christmas at Hogwarts, Harry Potter: A Hogwarts Christmas Pop-Up, Harry Potter: Pop-Up Holiday Wreath, and Harry Potter: Christmas Sweater Blank Boxed Note Cards

Read more

This one-of-a-kind maze book set in a galaxy far, far away is a fun, interactive way to explore the Star WarsTM universe.

Expert maze creator and lifelong Star Wars fan Sean C. Jackson brings the saga to life through more than 30 beautifully illustrated mazes of iconic scenes and locations ranging from the forest moon of Endor to Bespin’s Cloud City, the dark side planet of Exegol, Jabba’s palace, pod races, clone armies, and much more. Each full-color maze includes notes about the environment and special bonus elements to find hidden along the way.

Star Wars fans of all ages will enjoy racing through the corridors of the Death Star, scavenging inside a fallen star destroyer on Jakku, searching the rocky cliffs of Ahch-To, and much more.

•    EXPLORE A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY: Immerse yourself in a brand new way when you explore your favorite Star Wars locations via exciting mazes.
•    ACCOMPLISH MISSIONS WITH EACH MAZE: Each of the dozens of unique mazes comes with its own mission that’s accomplished by finishing the maze, such as “Return to the base to escort the last transport off planet,” “Take the smuggler Han Solo back to your ship,” and “Locate Jedi Master Yoda in the mysterious swamp.”
•    EXTRA, FINDABLE ITEMS IN EACH MAZE: In addition to the maze itself, each includes other game activities or elements to find.
•    BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED AND REPLAYABLE: The gorgeously detailed full color mazes may be solved by pen or pencil, but using a non-writing item to follow the paths leaves the book ready to replay.

© & TM LUCASFILM LTD. Used Under Authorization.

Read more

‘A blast’ – Ian Rankin
‘A joyous celebration of 80s action cinema’ – Robbie Collin, Telegraph
‘Vastly entertaining’ – The Times

The behind-the-scenes story of the action heroes who ruled 1980s and 90s Hollywood and the beloved films – from Die Hard to The Terminator – that made them stars.

This wildly entertaining account of the golden age of the action movie charts Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger’s carnage-packed journey from enmity to friendship against the backdrop of Reagan’s America and the Cold War. Revealing fascinating untold stories of the colourful characters who ascended in their wake – high-kickers Chuck Norris and Jackie Chan, glowering tough guys Dolph Lundgren and Steven Seagal, and quipping troublemakers Jean-Claude Van Damme and Bruce Willis – it chronicles the rise of the invincible action hero who used muscle, martial arts or the perfect weapon to save the day. And how, as the 1990s rolled on, the glory days of these macho men – and the vision of masculinity they celebrated – began to fade.

Drawing on candid interviews with the action stars themselves, plus their collaborators, friends and foes, The Last Action Heroes is a no-holds-barred account of a period in Hollywood history when there were no limits to the heights of fame these men achieved, or to the mayhem they wrought, on-screen and off.
______

‘Highly entertaining’ – Sunday Telegraph
‘A rollicking, anecdote-packed tribute to the cavalier days’ – Literary Review

Read more