New York, Van Nostrand Reinhold (1983) Hardcover. First Edition. Book Condition: Fine in Fine DJ. 291 pages with illustrations in color & B/W throughout.

Forward by Armin Hofmann:   

"Little attempt has been made to provide a clear explanation of the fundamentals of motion pictures. This neglect of basic theory and technique applies particularly to the realm of education. 

Experienced professionals tend to ignore the problems of film instruction. Consequently, the existing literature that does seriously examine the aims, methods and materials of film instruction is insignificant and unimportant. It seems that this field is so complex, consisting of so many interwoven processes, that any thought of dealing with film fundamentals has been rejected as too overwhelming. And teaching these basics is becoming even more difficult, primarily because of the advances in film technology and the growing number of materials and processes available. If, in the past, serious doubts have been expressed as to whether it is indeed possible to provide instruction to master a creative process, now it is almost certain one will not acquire an understanding of film in a course of instruction. The difficulty of teaching the material frequently means it is simply not taught. 

Unfortunately instructors seem to be overly concerned with the possibility of nipping creative talent in the bud by stressing fundamental considerations, conducting methodical investigations, and providing structured procedures. They should be more concerned that film, probably our most important social relations medium, lacks a foundation of skills. Peter von Arx’s new book tries to remedy this educational deficiency. At a time when almost every prominent school of design is trying, regardless of financial considerations, to determine if and _how film education can be incorporated into a course of study, von Arx latches on to some fundamental ideas and paves the way to solving the problems of film education. 

A stunning design book by Peter von Arx from his teaching at AGS Basel School of Design. Hard to describe how beautiful and compelling this book is. An important book for any library that is comprised of books on Film, or Design, or Typography, or Story-telling of any kind.