First book in any language to focus on Alphaville, published on the 40th anniversary of its release Uses new interviews with Godard's main collaborators on the film to reveal new aspects Explores its multiple influences, on 'Blade Runner', for example, or 'Code 46' 2005 is the fortieth anniversary of Alphaville's release and there's also a major reassessment of Godard under way. So this is an ideal moment to publish this, the first ever full appraisal of Godard's highly influential classic of sci-fi noir. Chris Darke writes about how, working without sets, special effects, or even a script, Godard made a dystopian vision of a technocratic future city. He explores the film's unique combination of genres and styles, its remarkable creation the secret agent Lemmy Caution, and uses his new interviews with the director's collaborators to chronicle the film's production. He also relates Alphaville to Godard's later work, setting it in the context of his wider career and of its influence on other filmmakers and artists.

Chris Darke is a film critic, writing for 'The Independent', 'Cahiers du Cinema', 'Sight and Sound' and others. He is the author of 'Light Readings' (2000).