The Alchemy of MirrorMask

About this book

An oversized lavishly produced book The Alchemy of MirrorMask takes readers inside the making of the feature film and allows them to experience the creative process. Animated by Dave McKean and written by Neil Gaiman MirrorMask combines animation and live action with a compelling storyline to take the cinematic experience to a stunning new level. MirrorMask is the story of Helena a fifteen-year-old girl who works for her familys circus. She juggles sells popcorn and longs to run away and join the "real world." Helena also dreams and one day she wakes up to find herself in a strange new world populated by mysterious creaturesa dream world where she embarks on an amazing journey. Each chapter in The Alchemy of MirrorMask begins with an introduction by McKean and Gaiman and then guides readers through the different types of visuals used to create the film including sketches paintings storyboards 3-d models photographs texture maps frame blow-ups and more. Also included are photos taken on the set and during McKeans travels to Venice Prague Trieste Warsaw and other places that provided inspiration for MirrorMask. Gaiman and McKeans insightful commentary sheds light on the films journey from concept to screen. Gaiman and McKean fans cinema buffs and visual art enthusiasts will all delight in The Alchemy of MirrorMask a rare behind-the-scenes look at the making of an extraordinary film.