RoboCop: The Definitive History
Written by: Calum Waddell.
Publisher: Titan Books Ltd.
Published: 24.10.2014.
Dimensions: 301 x 228mm.
Pages: 224.
ISBN: 9781783293254
Foreword: Edward Neumeier.
Description:
“RoboCop is one of the most iconic characters in cinema. This will be the first comprehensive book on the sci-fi classic. This official, illustrated history will include stills and never before seen behind the scenes images, artwork and designs, as well as script extracts and new interviews. Exclusive access to all the films, including 2014’s re-envisioning; making this a treasury of highly collectible RoboCop material. Original text will delve into the impact of RoboCop; its influence, and legacy.”
Review:
As a child of the 80s it’s almost impossible to not have experienced the brilliantly dark and satirical world of RoboCop; with its many iconic characters and joyful use of violence- it easily became a favorite with movie-goers and cemented itself firmly in movie history and the subconscious of audiences the world over.
Whether you watched it for the gore, the action, the frightening- yet humorous, social commentary or the pitch-perfect performances; it’s easy to love RoboCop.
Titan Books have brought RoboCop fans a nostalgic and sometimes aggravating journey through the history of the franchise; RoboCop: The Definitive History. With new interviews with key figures in the creation and continuation of the futuristic saga, this is a book guaranteed to shed light on any questions fans might have about the journey and direction of their beloved RoboCop.
This book contains new interviews with people so integral to the RoboCop universe, such as: Writers/creators; Michael Miner and Edward Neumeier, directors; Paul Verhoeven, Irvin Kershner, Fred Dekker and Jose Padihila. Actors: Joel Kinnaman, Nancy Allen, Kurtwood Smith, Robert John Burke. Effects wizard; Phil Tippet and producer Jon Davison.
This insightful and detailed odyssey through the highs and lows of RoboCop; from its legendary conception to its staggering realization on screen- from the process of making the movie to casting, costumes and budget constraints; this book misses nothing as it informs the reader with commentaries, interviews, facts and gorgeous glossy pictures.
When I say nothing was missed- I mean it; no stone is left unturned as we are filled in on interesting details like; director Irvin Kershner (RoboCop 2) and his unexplained dislike of Nancy Allen (Lewis) which led to a certain amount of tension on set.
or…
The writers from the first RoboCop Michael Miner and Edward Neumier were ready to write RoboCop 2 when a writers strike suggested a delay that Orion didn’t find acceptable- leading Orion to go elsewhere and use writer/artist Frank Miller (Sin City, 300). Director Paul Verhoeven wanted to make RoboCop 2 but was unable to commit due to scheduling conflicts and Orion’s time constraints (Orion was in big trouble financially- even after such big successes such as The Terminator amongst others).
RoboCop’s suit in the first movie weighed around thirty-five pounds; in the third movie the suit weighed closer to seventy-five,- much to actor and RoboCop replacement- Robert John Burke’s dismay and discomfort. The hefty costume caused Burke to have fluid trapped in his spine during filming, he continued the shoot against doctor’s orders. Time constraints and budget constraints… again.
By the time the latest incarnation of the franchise emerged, the story had shifted from the social satire so intrinsic to the first movie, to a more political message aimed at fears about technology and military warfare. A fact reinforced by actor Joel Kinnaman (RoboCop 2014) as he explains that director Jose Paihila doesn’t need to be like Paul Verhoeven, in that he doesn’t need the “over-the-top” violence and language to make a thoughtful movie.
Summary:
This book is a great read, packed with interesting and entertaining facts which will have you reciting the great little tidbits lining every single page and is perfectly accompanied by beautiful glossy high quality images- which include the various Robo suits.
Follow the entire RoboCop story from RoboCop (1987) through to the new Reboot (2014). This book does mention RoboCop Vs Terminator comics, RoboCop’s TV outings and much more.
This book is a must have for any fan of RoboCop. MUST HAVE.
It also smells great.