By Brian J. Robb

Polaris Publishing

The first book to trace the history of Philip K. Dick screen adaptations, both in cinema and on television.

I have a well-thumbed copy of Brian J. Robb’s 2006 first edition of this book, which concluded with movie Next, so I was delighted that it has been updated to cover off years 2007-2023.

The first 15 chapters are essentially the same content as the first edition, with minor changes to the copy. After biographical detail of Dick and his publishing, we dive into ground zero for Dick movies – Blade Runner. Each subsequent Dick adaptation is covered off, looking at its inception, production and reception, written in easy-to-follow prose by Robb.

The entirely new material begins with Chapter Sixteen and a look at Radio Free Albemuth, The Adjustment Bureau and the Total Recall remake. Subsequent chapters look at the Minority Report, The Man in the High Castle and Electric Dreams TV series, Blade Runner 2049 and Black Lotus.

There’s a 12-page section of colour stills in the centre of the book, but I miss the many black and white illustrations of the original edition that were interspersed through the copy. I also miss the first edition’s useful and detailed appendix of adapted works, but it’s a minor niggle

Verdict: Robb’s excellent overview of PKD adaptations gets an excellent revised edition, but if you own the original you may want to hold onto it. 9/10

Nick Joy

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