Mira (Oxford Brookes Univ., UK) has produced a timely and detailed reference guide to the cinema of Spain. Beginning with a chronology that encompasses a brief overview of events in Spanish history and major film releases and prizes, the introduction expands on the development of Spanish cinema by period, covering 1896 to 2008. The main body of the work, however, is the extensive dictionary, which presents key Spanish film titles, actors, institutes, and directors....The book's final section—the bibliography—will prove to be extremely useful for students and librarians alike as it organizes comprehensive Spanish and English language criticism and resources by time period, Spanish region, and major directors and actors....Recommended

Choice Reviews

This valuable reference explores the shape, evolution, and lasting influence of Spanish cinema via informative, alphabetized profiles of Spanish producers, directors, cinematographers, film companies, actors, and landmark films. Entries are multiple paragraphs long and illuminate both the symbolic details of films and the creative hallmarks of filmmakers. Mira (Cinema of Spain and Portugal) opens with a chronology and a fascinating 30-page essay charting Spanish cinema's initial development, its value as an instrument of self-definition, and its repeated adaptation for political or historically recuperative ends. An excellent cultural studies resource.

Library Journal

Given the interest in Spanish cinema as a module at academic institutions offering courses in Hispanic studies or cinema studies, the volume is certain of success. It is both an excellent reference source as well as a volume to browse and provides a veritable wealth of information, bringing together in one handy volume material not readily available elsewhere.

Reference Reviews