The Directors - Clint Eastwood (2000)

First released while Clint Eastwood's Space Cowboys was still enjoying a successful theatrical run in the fall of 2000, this edition of The Directors serves as a satisfying retrospective of Eastwood's career. The legendary actor-director had appeared in 68 films by this time, and although he hints at retirement at the end of this hour-long profile, he also mentions future projects and shows no signs of slowing down. With Eastwood as the primary interview subject, the program covers all the salient points, most importantly the inspiration and influence of directors Don Siegel and Sergio Leone, who had fostered Eastwood's early career and encouraged him to direct. To that end, Eastwood's directorial debut Play Misty for Me is given thorough coverage, in addition to Eastwood's views on the importance of music (as long as it's balanced and not "bombastic"), and his well-known skill at delivering all of his films on time and on (or under) budget. "I was brought up to respect the financier's money," Eastwood says, explaining the methods he uses to work within a given production timeframe.

Interviewees range from A-list stars like Meryl Streep and Morgan Freeman to such veteran character actors (and Eastwood regulars) as Geoffrey Lewis and Pat Hingle. Extra time is appropriately devoted to Unforgiven, which Eastwood describes as "not an anti-Western, but a myth-breaking Western" in its handling of violence. Rounding out with Space Cowboys and some closing comments by Eastwood and his daughter, Alison, this edition of The Directors is, like many of the others, a concise and informative overview for anyone who wants to learn more about this great American filmmaker. --Jeff Shannon Amazon.com

For Collectors of Clint.....A Must See

This review refers to "The Directors - Clint Eastwood" VHS (Winstar Home Entertainment)

Winstar and the AFI have put together a collection of documenteries depicting the films of some of the greatest directors. Naturally being a film lover I was interested in these film makers who do such a wonderful job of bringing the films to us. And even more naturally, my first view was to be the one of Clint Eastwood. I am a huge fan of his(if you have seen my review pages you already know this about me), not only of the films he starred in, but of his acclaimed direction as well.

So this tape deals exactly with that..the films Eastwood has directed. If you are looking for more of a biography or a complete filmography of Clint, you won't find that here. Although it begins with a short bio of how he started in the film world, most of this tape that runs close to an hour delves into his films including "Play Misty For Me","High Plains Drifter", "The Outlaw Josey Wales", 'Sudden Impact"(The only Dirty Harry he directed), "Bird", "Unforgiven", "True Crime,"Space Cowboys" and more.

Awesome stars are awed by working with Clint. Meryl Streep,Ed Harris, Morgan Freeman(who made me smile when he described his feelings at just being asked to work on one of Clint's films) and Laura Dern, are among those who have nothing but praise when it comes to talking about working with Eastwood. Clint himself devotes alot of time to this documentary, talking about his views on not just the films, but about how he is able to seperate himself from acting when he is also directing. Most of the actors describe this Hollywood Icon as "just a regular guy" who makes working on the set a pleasure.

I very much enjoyed this entertaining tape that kept me interested for the entire length, with all the interviews and film clips. I also enjoyed hearing Allison Eastwood describe her dad as sometimes being a "goofball". It really showed what a down to earth person he is.

For years Clint Eastwood has given us the gifts of his talents and it was a joy to see him speak about them on film. He seems as enthusiastic and energetic as ever and I'll be looking foward to more of his work in the future. If you are a fan of his work, you will find this documentary well worth the view.

enjoy...Laurie May 17, 2003

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