Emily Maskell Icons of Cinema: Baz Luhrmann

Empire Magazine review: Film journalist Emily Maskell goes film-by-film for this nicely presented potted history, bolstered by handsome imagery and concept art. Each film - and what Maskell describes as his "Luhrmannisms" - is broken down with thoughtful, analytic detail. Icons of Cinema: Baz Luhrmann explores the fascinating and flamboyant career of one of the world's best-loved movie directors. Famous for his lavish style and dramatic portrayal of tragedy and love, Luhrmann is known as Australia's gem and his iconic work is instantly recognisable. Discover what makes a Luhrmann film - how he earned auteur status, the ingredients that comprise his signature style, the influences that led him to create each feature film and the themes he revisits most often in his work. You'll learn how he uses music, dance, set design and costume to convey emotion and examine the human condition and how his interest in stage direction informed the style of his Red Curtain Trilogy. Fully illustrated throughout with stunning photographs and movie stills, you'll find a chapter dedicated to each major motion picture. It's time to relive the magic of Strictly Ballroom , Romeo + Juliet , Moulin Rouge! , Australia , The Great Gatsby and Elvis .