Amazon.com Product Description (ISBN 0789477920, Hardcover)

From the birth of the film industry in the dusty village of Hollywood 1905, to the computer-generated special effects extravaganzas of today; from the days when the big studios reigned supreme to the rise of the independent film; from the innovative directors who shared their visions to the talented actors who captured out hearts -- Hollywood: A Celebration! chronicles the enduring fascination of movies and movie stars over the last 100 years. Featuring 640 pages and over 750 photographs -- many of them published here for the first time -- this comprehensive work is an exhilarating journey into the heart of the world's entertainment capital. Hollywood: A Celebration offers an unprecedented look at American film, the preeminent art form of modern times. The Hollywood phenomenon is documented through stunning photography -- including dramatic film stills from hundreds of movies; glamorous studio portraits of actors from the era of the star system; candid, behind-the-scenes shots from movie sets and sound stages; graphic movie posters; and images of the ever-stylish Hollywood society -- drawn largely from the renowned Kobal collection, one of the most important movie-still archives in the world. Noted film critic David Thomson provides insightful narrative commentary for each photograph, as well as an incisive introduction.