The Great Movies Book Summary - The Great Movies Book explained in key points

The Great Movies summary

Brief summary

The Great Movies by Roger Ebert is a collection of essays that celebrates the art of cinema. Ebert shares his insightful commentary on classic films, offering a deeper appreciation for these timeless masterpieces.

Give Feedback
Topics
Table of Contents

    The Great Movies
    Summary of key ideas

    Exploring the World of Cinema

    In The Great Movies, Roger Ebert takes us on a captivating journey through the world of cinema. Ebert, a renowned film critic, starts by sharing his belief that movies are a reflection of our culture and a mirror to our lives. He asserts that great movies are not just entertainment, but they are also a form of art that can inspire, provoke, and enlighten us.

    Ebert's selection of great movies is diverse, spanning different genres, time periods, and cultures. He begins by discussing classics such as Casablanca and Citizen Kane, highlighting their enduring appeal and cinematic brilliance. He then delves into iconic films like The Godfather and Jaws, exploring their impact on popular culture and their contribution to the art of storytelling.

    Unearthing Lesser-Known Gems

    While Ebert celebrates the well-known classics, he also introduces us to lesser-known gems that have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. He discusses films like La Dolce Vita, Metropolis, and The Third Man, shedding light on their unique storytelling techniques, visual aesthetics, and their influence on subsequent filmmakers.

    Throughout The Great Movies, Ebert's passion for cinema shines through. He is not merely a critic, but a dedicated fan who appreciates the artistry and creativity that goes into making a film. He reminds us that great movies are not just about big budgets or star-studded casts, but about the power of storytelling and the ability to evoke emotions and provoke thoughts.

    Exploring Global Perspectives

    One of the most intriguing aspects of The Great Movies is Ebert's exploration of global cinema. He introduces us to films from different parts of the world, including the masterpieces of Akira Kurosawa, Ingmar Bergman, and Federico Fellini. He emphasizes that great movies are not confined to Hollywood but can be found in the rich and varied traditions of world cinema.

    As Ebert discusses these international films, he not only provides us with a window into different cultures and perspectives but also underscores the universal language of cinema. He demonstrates how great movies, regardless of their origin, can resonate with audiences worldwide, transcending language and cultural barriers.

    Concluding Thoughts

    In conclusion, The Great Movies is not just a collection of film reviews; it is a celebration of the art of cinema. Through his insightful essays, Ebert encourages us to appreciate the depth and diversity of the cinematic world. He reminds us that great movies have the power to move us, challenge us, and expand our understanding of the human experience.

    As we journey through Ebert's selection of great movies, we are not only entertained but also enlightened. We gain a deeper understanding of the craft of filmmaking and the enduring impact of these cinematic masterpieces. In essence, The Great Movies is an invitation to explore, appreciate, and celebrate the magic of cinema in all its forms.

    Give Feedback
    How do we create content on this page?
    More knowledge in less time
    Read or listen
    Read or listen
    Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
    Find your next read
    Find your next read
    Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
    Shortcasts
    Shortcasts New
    We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.

    What is The Great Movies about?

    The Great Movies is a collection of essays by renowned film critic Roger Ebert. In this book, Ebert explores the artistry and significance of some of the most influential films in cinema history. From classics like Casablanca and The Godfather to contemporary masterpieces like There Will Be Blood, Ebert offers insightful analysis and behind-the-scenes anecdotes that will deepen your appreciation for these cinematic gems.

    The Great Movies Review

    The Great Movies (2003) by Roger Ebert explores the world of cinema through a selection of noteworthy films. Here's why this book is a valuable read:
    • Featuring insightful analyses and behind-the-scenes stories, it provides a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking.
    • With diverse genres and time periods represented, it offers a broad view of cinema history and introduces readers to new, exciting movies.
    • Its engaging writing style and passion for film shine through, ensuring that the exploration of each movie is far from dull.

    Who should read The Great Movies?

    • Movie enthusiasts who want to expand their knowledge of classic and influential films

    • People looking for insightful and engaging analysis of iconic movies

    • Readers who enjoy Roger Ebert's writing and want to explore his thoughts on cinema

    About the Author

    Roger Ebert was a renowned film critic who wrote for the Chicago Sun-Times for over four decades. He was the first film critic to win a Pulitzer Prize and became a household name through his television show with Gene Siskel, Siskel & Ebert at the Movies. Ebert published numerous books on film, including The Great Movies series, which showcases his love and knowledge of cinema. His writing was celebrated for its accessibility and insight, making him one of the most influential voices in the world of film criticism.

    Categories with The Great Movies

    People ❤️ Blinkist 
    Sven O.

    It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.

    Thi Viet Quynh N.

    Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.

    Jonathan A.

    Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.

    Renee D.

    Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.

    People also liked these summaries

    4.7 Stars
    Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
    37 Million
    Downloads on all platforms
    10+ years
    Experience igniting personal growth
    Powerful ideas from top nonfiction

    Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.

    Get started

    The Great Movies FAQs 

    What is the main message of The Great Movies?

    The main message is to celebrate and appreciate timeless and influential films.

    How long does it take to read The Great Movies?

    Reading time varies, but expect several hours. Blinkist summary takes around 15 minutes.

    Is The Great Movies a good book? Is it worth reading?

    The Great Movies is a must-read for film enthusiasts, offering profound insights and recommendations.

    Who is the author of The Great Movies?

    Roger Ebert is the author of The Great Movies.

    What to read after The Great Movies?

    If you're wondering what to read next after The Great Movies, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
    • The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau
    • A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
    • Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
    • The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
    • The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
    • The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
    • Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
    • Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
    • The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda