Muir, author of Horror Films of the 1970s
, admires and enjoys Raimi's highly praised work. Examining Raimi's oeuvre, from the cult classic low-budget horror film The Evil Dead
(1981) through the mega-hit Spider-Man
(2002), he offers lively, behind-the-scenes accounts via interviews with many of Raimi's collaborators. For example, he divulges the trade secrets of Tom Sullivan, the man responsible for the special effects in The Evil Dead
, which illustrate the resourcefulness Raimi inspires in his colleagues. Although famous for violent and unnerving films like 1990's Darkman
, the director exudes a calm presence, noted for dressing in a suit and tie to indicate his respect for the craft of filmmaking. Even while exploring new terrain, such as the neo-Western The Quick and the Dead
(1995) or 1999's baseball/romance film For Love of the Game
, Raimi maintains a strong visual and emotional landscape. In Spider-Man
, Muir says, he found the perfect vehicle to marry his love of comic books, his visual talents and his sensitivity, producing the most successful film of the genre. Muir shows how signature flourishes (e.g., his "Point of View subjective shot") pop up in Raimi's fledgling works yet still thrill when used in Spider-Man
. If there is a downside to the nonconformist director, Muir has yet to find it. B&w photos. (July)
