Before
I start this review I owe David a bit of an apology for putting off
this book review, between the Widescreen Festival Judging and
scheduled interview commitments, a proper review of a 500 plus page
book was not possible. Full disclosure, I decided to BUY the book
direct from David, because anyone who has that much passion to write
about action needs to be supported.
For
action fans, The Good, The Tough & The Deadly is a detailed
amalgamation of compiled interviews and film reviews from David.
Formatted in an encyclopedia style, alphabetically by film title with
an index of stars and titles reviewed in the back, with interviews
thrown in. The format alone is really enjoyable, as the reader is
able to pinpoint which star and which film they would like to peruse
first.
Of
course I began my readings with films I have reviewed and people including
Cynthia Rothrock and Karen Shepard whom I have had the pleasure to have interviewed. In fact, the
real highlights of the entire book are the really detailed interviews
of the two ladies, as David really took the time and effort to get
inside their mind for action, thoughts on making films in Hong Kong
and a bit of competitive spirit between them. Partially truculent interviews
are often the most entertaining. That is why I loved interviewing the
people like Uwe Boll and Natassia Malthe who are not afraid to speak
honestly, rather refreshing in this Hollywood vapid glossing over of action
films, and refusing to answer many questions landscape, in fear of
stepping on toes.
David's interview with Eric Jacobus is a real gem, and provides an inspiring
look at modern day indie film making. After interviewing Eric several
times since 2006 I must say each interview I read from Eric, I learn
more. David J. Moore goes into a budget detail of 'Death Grip', and
Eric, ever honest and open chats about it, the casting, and expense
breakdown, quite informative, for readers and perspective film makers
alike. Really solid work from David on the question front, and brings
out the bearded, yet serious film maker side of Eric.
Scattered
through the hundreds of reviews some favorites that stand out are
when David J. Moore does not like a film, or a particular actor, even
when I completely disagree with him, the honesty of a dislike for a
project resonates, and bites like a snake, but perhaps that is his
way of telling the people they can be better. An example is Skin
Trade, I really liked the film, and thought that Celina Jade offered
Tony Jaa a chance to explore his softer side, but David focuses on
the non urgency of the action, which is a erudite point perhaps I may
have over looked. He lambasted '4Got10' and I really loved what he
wrote, clever and honest, it was one of Dolph's more forgettable
roles.
All of
the reviews are informative, in The Good, The Bad & The Deadly,
and there are many amazing action stars are scattered throughout,
the one major issue I have with the book is the distinct lack of
mention of many of the ladies in these films, and not many lady
interviews. Now obviously, 'G.I. Joe Retaliation', was a film that
David J. Moore did not like, which I loved, but to completely push aside 5 months of
intense training from Elodie Yung with incredibly talented stunt
professionals Ming Qiu and Tara Macken is almost like reviewing a
restaurant's food without mentioning a signature dish. Where was the
mention of the crazy ass performance of a very young, and at the
time, non-English speaking Bai Ling in The Crow? Natassia Malthe has
been in several action films including playing Typhoid in the
original Elektra film and is not mentioned. This is basically my only
real complaint about the book.That said, I am sure now David will
interview more ladies, because, they are rising in action, and David
is always looking to expand his knowledge, by reading The Action
Elite! #JujuChan ,#AmyJohnston, #SheenaChou, etc...I am sure will
cross his path, one way or another in 2017 as David and I both
respect Jesse V. Johnson, and the promotions of 'Savage Dog' and then
'Accident Man' will commence, 'cue dangerous ladies, and maniacal Dan laughter'!
Overall,
The Good, The Tough & The Deadly is a thoroughly educational
book, especially for those new to action genre. The Good, The Tough,
& The Deadly of those books to thumb back and forth through,
especially when deciding on a new film to watch. David knows his
source material, is highly professional as a writer, shows distinct
respect to the actors, is fastidious in organization, and is a
staunch promoter of action. I recommend the book as a must buy, with a solid 8 out of 10. Amazon has it as one of
the better values. With many of the indie outlets selling the massive
hard cover book at about $30 dollars and $4 dollars shipping.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0764349953/ref=sr_1_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1482957362&sr=8-1&keywords=The+good+the+tough+an+the+deadly
If you
would like to purchase direct through the publisher please go to
the Schiffer website:
http://www.schifferbooks.com/the-good-the-tough-the-deadly-action-movies-stars-1960sa-present-5871.html
Happy
new year to all who read Dan's Movie Report! If you want to see
action grow, do not complain about it, strive to make it better, buy
the books, buy the DVDs, and support the honest, hardworking, and
humble stars in the business, if you do not like something speak up,
but offer solutions!
Watch
for Book Giveaways in 2017! on Dan's Movie Report and The Action
Elite!
