Into the Past: The Cinema of Guy Maddin

Into the Past is an impressive in-depth look at all of the major works in the Maddin inventory and more than a glance at almost everything else Maddin has ever produced. This immaculate achievement comprises a close set of readings and analysis that could only have been driven by a scholar happily lost in the funhouse of the material. Noreen Golfman, Literary Review of Canada

'To use a culinary metaphor, Into the Past is a grand entrée on which the chef has expanded a deal of thought and time. In terms of Maddin's work, Beard is the master chef and Into the Past his pièce de résistance.' George Melnyk, Great Plains Quarterly, Spring 2011

'Canada's most original and enigmatic filmmaker has found a superb interlocutor. William Beard demonstrates his deep and broad understanding of film history in these detailed, incisive, heartfelt, and sometimes playful interpretations of Guy Maddin's personal and artistic life.' Scott Forsyth, Department of Film, York University

'It seems entirely possible that with Into the Past, Guy Maddin has found his most committed exegete. Not only is William Beard deeply invested in the Maddin oeuvre; he appears to have studied every available scrap in his filmography and compiled an impressive array of production information. For anyone seeking guidance in the Maddin labyrinth, Beard offers not only a treasure chest, but a map showing us the way to many of the jewels.' Jonathan Rosenbaum, author of Essential Cinema: On the Necessity of Film Canons and Discovering Orson Welles