What are some essential books on film theory and criticism that every cinema fan should read?

Expanding our knowledge of film theory and criticism can deepen our appreciation for the art of cinema.

What are some essential books on these subjects that you believe every cinema fan should read? Share your recommendations.

Satyajit Ray’s Deep Focus serves as my introduction to world cinema.

It’s a collection of essays and lectures by Ray. His essays speak of the films that influence him (especially Kurosawa and di Sica), provides insights into the making of some of his own films, and laments about the state of films in India.

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The Film Sense by Eisenstein is a mandatory consideration. Montage is the life blood of film-making!

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What does he write about in it?

The basis and the nature of montage. Different kinds, and how the editing is to be used.

I own this book called the Japanese cinema book of alaister phillips and Fujiki Hideaki.
Its a great book on understanding the evolution of Japan’s cinema as well as draw parallels to our own.

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@Medhansh_Kaushik Sounds intriguing. What are some specific insights about Japanese cinema you got from the book?