BOOK REVIEW:
If
there is one thing which you’d love about this book,
it’d be the sheer size of it. Measuring 12.5 by 14.5
inches, it also boasts of a soft leather cover which will
leave any reader agape with awe.
Like
many other movie art books out there, this one spoils you
with countless concept art and pencil sketches (from all three
movies, no less). There is also an introduction from director
Gore Verbinski about the creative process which went into
the production of the movies, as well as an afterword by production
designer Rick Heinrichs about the group of talented people
he worked with.
In
between these two pages are intricate drawings and paintings
of characters, fleets, islands and scenes. We especially love
the portraits of Davy Jones and his scary crew. They are so
life-like that they are screaming to be hung on walls for
everyone’s admiration.
Sure,
there isn’t much in-depth information about the conceptualization
of the production design, but the enormous pages of Jack Sparrows,
Captain Babossas, Elizabeth Swanns and Will Turners will please
any fans of the franchise.
You
may be disappointed with the latest installment of this blockbuster
based on a Disneyland ride, but you will definitely not be
disappointed by this gorgeous book – if you are willing
to part with almost a hundred dollars, that is.
CHOICE XCERPT:
Creating the environments for a film takes a designer on a
journey. It’s usually an inner, thoughtful one but occasionally,
as with Pirates of the Caribbean, the voyage is also a real
one to unknown parts, the scout for locations, a real adventure
whose outcome is unforeseen and possibly quixotic.
VERDICT:
If
you have to, place this book proudly on your coffee table
when guests come by. Not only will they be gawking over the
stunningly luxurious feel of the leather cover, they’d
be gawking at the detailed artworks in one of the most exquisite
concept art books we have ever seen.
Review
by John Li
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