Written by two leading film scholars, this text acknowledges the contributions of Hollywood and films from other US sources, as well as examining film-making internationally. Concepts and events are illustrated with over 1400 frame enlargements. The text takes a holistic approach by providing an in-depth look at the historical influences of film-makers from around the globe. The subject of each chapter is placed in its social context. The four types of cinema - commercial, experimental, documentary and animated film - are covered consistently throughout the book. The importance of the individual film-maker is highlighted. For example, Chapter 29, "Art Cinema and the Idea of Authorship", examines the contributions of eight international directors - Ingmar Bergman, Akira Kurosawa and Federico Fellini, amongst others - whose works demonstrate the idea of authorship and have been the catalysts for change in cinematic history.