Total Recall: The Official Story of the Film by Simon Braund

 

Total Recall is one of the great action movies of the 80s/90s and it stands the test of time due to a great story and terrific acting and directing. Total Recall: The Official Story of the Film spills all the tea from its inspiration as a 1966 Philip K. Dick story through years of development hell, numerous script revisions, different visions of what the movie should be, and different huge Hollywood names attached to the project at various points.

Simon Braund takes you through the long road from page to screen and the myriad obstacles encountered along the way. Philip K. Dick's work wasn't fully appreciated in his lifetime but went on to serve as inspiration for several Hollywood blockbusters. Fortunately, someone had the foresight to see the potential in the story that became Total Recall. What followed was years of trying to get the script right, securing financing, and getting the movie made. 

The movie's makers encountered creative differences, bankruptcies, and difficulties with the filming and the special effects. Braund walks through all these stories including how the involvement of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Paul Verhoeven lit a fire under the project that carried it to the screen. Assembling the team to write, act, direct, score, and produce this movie is covered in detail. Stories of the grueling shooting schedule in Mexico, including the incredibly ambitious set designs will further your appreciation of what goes into movie-making. Also included are amazing behind-the-scenes photos, concept drawings, and stories from the actors and all the people involved. The cover art by Kyle Lambert is amazing and really captures what made this movie so memorable. 

If you love this movie or just appreciate learning what goes into filmmaking, you will enjoy this book. Either way, you're going to go watch the film again right after you finish. Truly a great story.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher.