The Encyclopedia of Best Films

by Jay Robert Nash

2019 · Bloomsbury Publishing USA

This all-inclusive A-Z encyclopedia by one of the world's foremost experts on cinema provides comprehensive annotations of the best films produced from 1914 on. The work offers more than 5,000 three- to five-star entries (three stars=good; four stars=excellent; five stars=masterpiece), and yes, author Jay Robert Nash has viewed every single one of them as well as many more that did not "make the cut." In addition to a precis, each film's entry also includes a listing of the cast as well as the key principles involved in production, from the director to the hair stylist. Especially unique to this book is a rating system that helps parents determine whether or not a film is appropriate for their children. Unlike the industry rating system which can be influenced by studio lobbying, Nash objectively evaluates each film and confers upon it one of four recommendations for viewing: recommended, acceptable, cautionary, and unacceptable. Backmatter includes a list of top films by genre (i.e. animated, drama, sports, mystery, adventure etc.) as well as an annotated name index listing all persons mentioned along with their dates of birth and death. Rounding out this essential volume for the film buff are over 500 still photos from the author's private collection.

THE OBVIOUS CLUE - Ultimate Murder Mystery Collection

by Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, Anna Katharine Green, Arthur Conan Doyle, Mary Roberts Rinehart, John Kendrick Bangs, Agatha Christie, Robert Barr, Ellis Parker Butler, Maurice Leblanc, Wilkie Collins, Edgar Wallace, Melville Davisson Post, R. Austin Freeman, A. E. W. Mason, E. W. Hornung, G. K. Chesterton, Victor L. Whitechurch

2023 · Good Press

THE OBVIOUS CLUE - Ultimate Murder Mystery Collection is an exquisite compilation that traverses the myriad landscape of mystery narratives, illuminating the thrilling art of the whodunit. Through a kaleidoscope of literary styles, this anthology captures the essence of suspense and deduction, weaving an intricate web of enigmas that challenge the intellect while ensnaring the reader's imagination. Whether it is the subtle intricacies of a clue hidden in plain sight, the psychological depths explored through atmospheric tension, or the nefarious plots unraveled by a sharp detective mind, each story stands out as a testament to the thrilling legacy of mystery fiction. The anthology features an impressive assembly of literary titans who have collectively sculpted the genre's rich tapestry. With roots in classic Victorian and Edwardian settings, these authors are pioneers in the mystery domain, some being the very progenitors of beloved detective archetypes and locked-room puzzles. The collection captures the diverse voices and inventive storytelling of figures like Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, and Agatha Christie, whose contributions have not only defined an era but also enriched our understanding of society's pursuit of justice and the human psyche's darker corridors. Readers are invited to embark on a cerebral and captivating journey through THE OBVIOUS CLUE, offering a multifaceted exploration of murder mystery's evolving narrative techniques. This collection is a veritable treasure trove for aficionados of detective fiction, promising an enlightening experience through its convergence of literary depth and engaging storytelling. With each tale serving as a conduit for dialogue across time and style, this anthology stands as an indispensable resource for those seeking both entertainment and insight into the timeless allure of the mystery genre.

The Case for Master Detectives - Ultimate Collction

by Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, Anna Katharine Green, Mary Roberts Rinehart, John Kendrick Bangs, Agatha Christie, Robert Barr, Ellis Parker Butler, Maurice Leblanc, Wilkie Collins, Edgar Wallace, Melville Davisson Post, R. Austin Freeman, A. E. W. Mason, E. W. Hornung, G. K. Chesterton, Victor L. Whitechurch

2022 · DigiCat

In 'The Case for Master Detectives - Ultimate Collection,' readers are introduced to a rich tapestry of tales that redefine the mystery genre, delving into human nature through the lens of crime and investigation. This anthology encapsulates a spectrum of literary styles, ranging from the Gothic undertones of supernatural mysteries to the cerebral puzzles woven within intricate narratives. The diverse selection captures the evolving mystery genre, highlighting both the timeless allure of classic detective tales and the innovative edge of emerging modern storytelling. With standout pieces expertly curated, this collection offers a cohesive yet varied exploration of narrative suspense and intellectual intrigue. The esteemed authors of this anthology, including luminaries such as Charles Dickens and Agatha Christie, contribute distinct voices that offer historical insight and cultural reflections. These authors, anchored in the literary movements of their times, have collectively shaped the contours of detective literature. Their stories align with movements such as the rise of detective fiction during the Victorian era and its subsequent evolution in the early 20th century. This anthology brings together an impressive array of perspectives—each voice contributing uniquely to the central theme of masterful detection. For readers eager to experience the breadth of detective fiction, 'The Case for Master Detectives - Ultimate Collection' presents an unparalleled opportunity. This anthology not only serves as a compendium of literary artistry but also as an intellectual journey through varied societal landscapes. It invites readers to immerse themselves in an intricate dialogue among authors, fostering a deeper appreciation of the cultural and narrative dimensions of the mystery genre. Thus, it holds immense educational and aesthetic appeal for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of detective fiction.