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Colors of Film: The Story of Cinema in 50 Palettes

Name: Colors of Film: The Story of Cinema in 50 Palettes
Brand: Frances Lincoln
SKU: 131311
Availability: InStock

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Colors of Film: The Story of Cinema in 50 Palettes offers a unique visual journey through the history of cinema, showcasing iconic movies through carefully curated color palettes. This book is perfect for film enthusiasts and creatives seeking inspiration from the art of storytelling and color design.

Category: Books

Tags: cinema history, color palettes, film books, film design, film studies, movie art, visual storytelling

Brands: Frances Lincoln

“What’s so wonderful about Bramesco’s book, outside of a visually splendid layout that embraces the first word of that title with detailed color breakdowns of each palette, is how much it enhances the critical language of the average viewer.” —Brian Tallerico, Editor of RogerEbert.com

*Honorable Mention, 2023 Foreword INDIE Book Award*

Taking you on from the earliest feature films to today, Colors of Film introduces 50 iconic movies and explains the pivotal role that color played in their success.

The use of color is an essential part of film. It has the power to evoke powerful emotions, provide subtle psychological symbolism and act as a narrative device.

Wes Anderson’s pastels and muted tones are aesthetically pleasing, but his careful use of color also acts as a shorthand for interpreting emotion. Moonlight(2016, dir. Barry Jenkins) cinematographer (James Laxton) and colorist (Alex Bickel) spent 100 hours fine-tuning the saturation and hues of the footage so that the use of color evolved in line with the growth of the protagonist through the film. And let’s not forget Schindler’s List (1993, dir. Steven Spielberg), in which a bold flash of red against an otherwise black-and-white film is used as a powerful symbol of life, survival and death.

In Colors of Film, film critic Charles Bramesco introduces an element of cinema that is often overlooked, yet has been used in extraordinary ways. Using infographic color palettes, and stills from the movies, this is a lively and fresh approach to film for cinema-goers and color lovers alike.

He also explores in fascinating detail how the development of technologies have shaped the course of modern cinema, from how the feud between Kodak and Fujifilm shaped the color palettes of the 20th Century’s greatest filmakers, to how the advent of computer technology is creating a digital wonderland for modern directors in which anything is possible.

Filled with sparkling insights and fascinating accounts from the history of cinema, Colors of Film is an indispensable guide to one of the most important visual elements in the medium of film.

Colors of Film: The Story of Cinema in 50 Palettes offers an immersive exploration into the visual language of cinema through a unique lens. This book invites readers to experience the evolution of film history by examining the use of color palettes that define and distinguish the artistry of various cinematic eras and styles. It is an essential addition for film enthusiasts, students, and creative professionals alike, providing a fresh perspective on how color shapes mood, narrative, and character within the moving image. With meticulous attention to detail, the book presents fifty carefully curated color palettes drawn from iconic films spanning different genres and periods. Each palette is accompanied by insightful commentary that delves into the significance of color choices, their cultural context, and the technical techniques behind their creation. This approach transforms the reading experience into a journey that celebrates cinema not only as storytelling but also as a rich visual tapestry. Incorporating Colors of Film into your daily life enhances your appreciation for the subtle yet powerful role of color in media. Whether used as a reference for artistic projects, a study aid for film theory, or simply an inspiration for personal creativity, this book enriches your understanding of cinematic art. It stands out as a beautifully designed volume that combines aesthetic appeal with educational value, making it a compelling resource and a striking addition to any bookshelf.