Expansive New Book Examines the Complete Story Behind '2001: A Space Odyssey'

As one of the most culturally significant and innovative films of the past half-century, Stanley Kubrick‘s 2001: A Space Odyssey stands out among its generational cohorts. Now, a new nonfiction book sets out to break down the expansive, storied history surrounding the Kubrick classic.

Fittingly-titled Space Odyssey: Stanley Kubrick, Arthur C. Clarke, and the Making of a Masterpiece, the new title commemorates the movie’s 50th anniversary and is billed as the “definitive story” of its creation — an “inside account” from Stanley Kubrick and writer Arthur C. Clarke is also contained within its 512 pages. Penned by author Michael Benson, Space Odyssey: Stanley Kubrick, Arthur C. Clarke, and the Making of a Masterpiece aims to give readers a thorough understanding of how 2001: A Space Odyssey came to life and its impact on multiple disciplines of art — the piece even inspired UNDERCOVER’s latest seasonal showcase. From “Kubrick and Clarke’s first meeting in New York in 1964” to the post-production period, this covers it all.

“Space Odyssey: Stanley Kubrick, Arthur C. Clarke, and the Making of a Masterpiece tells the story of the film’s production, from Kubrick and Clarke’s first meeting to its enduring legacy,” reads the book’s official synopsis. “The tale is fleshed out via interviews with Clarke, Kubrick’s widow Christiane, and other key contributors, giving you a unique inside perspective on a true cinema classic.”

For those looking to pre-order their own copy of Space Odyssey: Stanley Kubrick, Arthur C. Clarke, and the Making of a Masterpiece before its April 3 arrival, head over to Amazon now.