The first handsome book on James Gray, one of the most gifted American directors of his generation, who forged a unique path on the frontier between independent cinema and Hollywood studios.
In just four features – Little Odessa (Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival; 1994); The Yards (Cannes Film Festival; 2000); La Nuit nous appartient (Cannes Film Festival; 2007); Two Lovers (Cannes Film Festival; 2008) – James Gray has established himself as one of the essential filmmakers of his generation.
From his humble origins in an immigrant family in Queens to his latest film project with Brad Pitt, from his first super-8 science fiction films to the biggest film festivals, the book traces the career of one of France’s favorite American filmmakers. It also reveals his sources of inspiration, writing methods and shooting experiences. From unforeseen snowstorms and impossible budgets to producers’ dirty tricks when it comes to the final cut, James Gray reveals the behind-the-scenes story behind the making of a film.
Numerous actors (James Caan, Mark Whalberg, Tim Roth, Gwyneth Paltrow…), producers, screenwriters (Matt Reeves), composers (Howard Shore), set designers, editors, cinematographers (Harris Savides…), who have worked with James Gray, confide in this book. These interviews retrace the creative process of each film, step by step, from genesis to final mix.
Through these testimonies, but also thanks to exceptional documents (scripts, storyboards, shooting photos, original scores, the director’s personal archives, etc.), James Gray delivers a lesson in cinema that will enthrall all cinephiles and film students alike.
