Making of Starship Troopers, The

Rating:
Summary: Behind the bugs
Review: "The Making of Starship Troopers," by Paul M. Sammon, is an interesting look at the making of one of my favorite science fiction films of recent years. The book is packed full of visual elements: reproductions of conceptual art, behind-the-scenes photographs, and more. Some of the most interesting illustrations are sketches done by Paul Verhoeven, the film's director.

Together, the text and visuals describe the process by which Robert Heinlein's novel of the same name became a film. Integrated into the text are a wealth of quotes from both cast and crew members. Particularly intriguing are the explanations behind some of the differences between the novel and the film. There are some fascinating anecdotes, such as the funny story behind the filming of the notorious co-ed shower scene.

The book includes a lengthy interview with director Verhoeven in which he discusses such topics as the echoes of Leni Riefenstahl in the style of the film. If you're a fan of this film, you should get a lot out of this book.

Rating:
Summary: Behind the bugs
Review: "The Making of Starship Troopers," by Paul M. Sammon, is an interesting look at the making of one of my favorite science fiction films of recent years. The book is packed full of visual elements: reproductions of conceptual art, behind-the-scenes photographs, and more. Some of the most interesting illustrations are sketches done by Paul Verhoeven, the film's director.

Together, the text and visuals describe the process by which Robert Heinlein's novel of the same name became a film. Integrated into the text are a wealth of quotes from both cast and crew members. Particularly intriguing are the explanations behind some of the differences between the novel and the film. There are some fascinating anecdotes, such as the funny story behind the filming of the notorious co-ed shower scene.

The book includes a lengthy interview with director Verhoeven in which he discusses such topics as the echoes of Leni Riefenstahl in the style of the film. If you're a fan of this film, you should get a lot out of this book.

Rating:
Summary: A Must Buy for Fans of the Film
Review: A "making of" book for a film like Starship Troopers is a natural. There's so much material in this picture worthy of coverage - the awesome visual effects, the exotic equipment and vehicles, the far flung locales, the intense space combat. Throw in all the issues involved with the adaptation of Heinlein's classic sci-fi novel, the film's fascist political overtones, and the involvement of director Paul Verhoeven. Not to mention those astonishing bugs.

Fans of the movie will enjoy a comprehensive look at just about everything that went into the making of this future war classic. This large-format book is packed with color photos, illustrations, storyboards, sketches, model shots, and interviews.

If you were as fascinated with what you saw on screen as I was, and wondered how it was all done, then this is the book for you. Out of print, but available on the used-book market, this is a definite must have. Careful shopping will snag you a copy in nice condition for a reasonable price. Some "new" copies are still floating around if you're willing to pay a premium. Enjoy!

Rating:
Summary: A Must For Any Starship Troopers Fan
Review: If you enjoyed the movie, you will enjoy this book. Mr. Sammon has done a wonderful job taking us through the creative process faced by each of the technical departments. From concept to creation he includes a wealth of behind-the-scenes information and photos that feed our desire for more. Easy to read, hard to put down. Buy this book or face Administrative Punishment... Live forever Apes!

Rating:
Summary: A Must For Any Starship Troopers Fan
Review: If you enjoyed the movie, you will enjoy this book. Mr. Sammon has done a wonderful job taking us through the creative process faced by each of the technical departments. From concept to creation he includes a wealth of behind-the-scenes information and photos that feed our desire for more. Easy to read, hard to put down. Buy this book or face Administrative Punishment... Live forever Apes!