Inspired by True Events: An Illustrated Guide to More Than 500 History-Based Films

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ABC-CLIO, Oct 17, 2013 - History - 632 pages

An up-to-date and indispensable guide for film history buffs of all kind, this book surveys more than 500 major films based on true stories and historical subject matter.

When a film is described as "based on a true story" or "inspired by true events," exactly how "true" is it? Which "factual" elements of the story were distorted for dramatic purposes, and what was added or omitted? Inspired by True Events: An Illustrated Guide to More Than 500 History-Based Films, Second Edition concisely surveys a wide range of major films, docudramas, biopics, and documentaries based on real events, addressing subject areas including military history and war, political figures, sports, and art. This book provides an up-to-date and indispensable guide for all film history buffs, students and scholars of history, and fans of the cinema.

  • Clearly organized to facilitate quick location of specific films and topic areas
  • Provides near-equal emphasis on both the films themselves and the historical events or persons on which they were based
  • Presents carefully researched and highly informative coverage on a wide range of films that address military history, politics, sports, art, business and economics, and crime
  • Offers pointed ideological assessments often avoided by more conventional treatments

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About the author (2013)

Robert Niemi, PhD, is associate professor of English and codirector of the American Studies Program at St. Michael's College, Colchester, VT.

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