Oliver Stone has left an indelible mark on public opinion and political life and has generated enormous controversy and debate among those who take issue with his dramatic use of history. This text brings Stone face-to-face with some of his critics and supporters and allows Stone himself ample room to respond to their views. Featuring such luminaries as David Halberstam, Stephen Ambrose, Arthur Schlesinger, Jr, Walter LaFeber and Robert Rosenstone, this book provides a critique of Stone's most contested films to show how they may distort, amplify or transcend the historical realities they appear to depict. Films including ""Salvador"", ""Platoon"", ""Wall Street"", ""Born on the Fourth of July"", ""The Doors"", ""JFK"", ""Heaven and Earth"", ""Natural Born Killers"" and ""Nixon"" are examined, aiming to give a fuller appreciation of Stone as both artist and intellectual. In response, Stone offers a defence of his artistic vision.

About the Author
Robert Brent Toplin is professor of history at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and author of Reel History: In Defense of Hollywood (see page 27).

Reviews
It is gratifying that an American film artist has done work that needs such spirited discussion. - Stanley Kauffmann in The New Republic; ""This is more than just an explication of Stone's work; it affords a deeper inquiry into how political ideas and 'history' are constructed and conveyed to mass audiences."" - Publishers Weekly; ""An essential addition to film, history, and American culture collections."" - Library Journal



Book Information
ISBN 9780700612574
Author Robert Brent Toplin
Format Paperback
Page Count 336
Imprint University Press of Kansas
Publisher University Press of Kansas
Weight(grams) 535g