Renowned for his masterful storytelling, Alan J. Pakula (1928โ1998) left an indelible mark on cinema history. Alan J. Pakula: Interviews offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of the directorโs illustrious career, from his early days in Hollywood to his rise as a major filmmaker. From the famous โparanoia trilogyโ of Klute, The Parallax View, and All the Presidentโs Men to the gripping psychological drama of Sophieโs Choice and his often-undervalued later work, Pakulaโs diverse filmography has captivated audiences and critics alike.
The first published collection of interviews with the acclaimed director, this volume presents an illuminating portrait of Pakula as a filmmaker, an artist, and a man of many parts. The eighteen pieces compiled here, including an illuminating introduction and previously unpublished 1983 interview by editor Tom Ryan, provide a broad overview of Pakulaโs career. In his own words, Pakula recounts his experience as Robert Mulliganโs producer, reflects on the bulk of films he made as director, and outlines his approach to the art of filmmaking. Taken as a whole, Alan J. Pakula: Interviews is a treasure trove of cinematic wisdom and a fitting tribute to the legacy of an important American filmmaker.