Eye on the world

More than 200 filmmakers from forty countries are included in this unique and engrossing look at cinema around the world. They are profiled in discussions with Ms. Stone that get to the heart of these artists' works and their underlying views of the world - the political and cultural contexts - that inform their works.

Definitely not a dry-as-dust academic survey, this inviting and enlightening blend of conversations and commentaries, most of which are drawn from the author's long-running film column for the San Francisco Chronicle, is a must-read for all who enjoy intelligent filmmaking.