Filmmaking in the UK has a rich history, with many huge blockbusters having been shot in one of the studios on our fair shores. Between 1948 and 1970, MGM British Studios in Borehamwood was the biggest, with films like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Where Eagles Dare being shot there.
MGM British Studios takes a look at the studio and the making of some of the biggest films that were shot there, using accounts from people from both sides of the camera and some rare and unseen photos from the sets and more.
The book is full of information, but is a little too dry and plodding at times to be completely engaging. Where the book really succeeds is in the selection of photos that are in it, with some great behind the scenes shots. The format of the book would’ve been better suited to a larger coffee table book with sharper glossy pictures rather than a wordy paperback with grainy pictures.
If you’re a fan of the golden age of the British film studio, there is a lot of information in the book, but overall it feels like a missed chance to do something great with the subject.
MGM BRITISH STUDIOS: HOLLYWOOD IN BOREHAMWOOD / AUTHOR: DEREK PRYKETT / PUBLISHER: BEARMANOR MEDIA / RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW
