About the Author

Ridley Scott is the director of G.I. Jane, White Squall, 1492: Conquest of Paradise, Thelma and Louise, Black Rain, Someone to Watch Over Me, Legend, Blade Runner, Alien, The Duellist, and the forthcoming Hannibal (2000).

David H. Franzoni's previous films include Amistad and Jumpin' Jack Flash.

John Logan was a screenwriter for RKO 281, Any Given Sunday, and Bats.

Reviews

Adult/High School-An intriguing look at the Academy Award and Golden Globe-winning film. "Raising the Roman Empire" covers the background of the film, from its original conception and development to set design and the re-creation of the Colosseum. Short interviews with the principal actors include their takes on their respective characters and the actual history behind the story. "A Dream That Was Rome" uses narration, script excerpts, storyboards, and stills to describe the film's action. The entire book is lavishly illustrated with photos, production drawings, and reproductions. The design is attractive and lends itself to browsing. Readers will find many interesting facts, especially about the costumes (Russell Crowe's armor had to be duplicated 12 times) and the visual effects (extras were shot against a green screen and multiplied in the computer for the Colosseum crowd shots).-Susan Salpini, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

Having already snagged Golden Globe Awards for Best Film and Best Music and boasting 12 Oscar nominations, Gladiator, the undisputed cinematic spectacle of last year, could easily become another Academy Award juggernaut. Scott's riveting historical drama concerns the fall of a Roman general owing to political intrigues following the death of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and his subsequent rise to become the people's hero as a slave and champion gladiator. This cornucopia of over 200 photographs, costume sketches, architectural renderings, storyboards, and digital-effects images is divided among two sections. "Raising the Roman Empire" covers the story development, film locations, cast selections, and film details. "A Dream That Was Rome" explicates the story through synopsis and includes generous excerpts from the screenplay. A beautiful work that transcends its cinematic subject, this book will fascinate anyone with an interest in scenic design or Ancient Rome. An obligatory acquisition. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.