In 'Zona,' author Geoff Dyer examines 1979 film 'Stalker'
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Many people have favorite movies, but British writer Geoff Dyer has taken his love of a 1970's science fiction film to new heights.
His book "Zona," deconstructs the whole of Andrei Tarkovsky's film "Stalker" scene by scene, and then uses it as a backdrop for a discussion about cinema, politics and Dyers own life.
From the New York Times book review:
Dyer casts himself as "Stalker's" stalker; getting there, as cruise lines used to advertise, is half the fun. "We are in another world that is no more than this world perceived with unprecedented attentiveness," he writes, and his own close attention is admirable. Taking pains to nail the feel of Tarkovsky's locations ("the echoey, intestinal, glass-strewn, stalactite-adorned tunnel"), Dyer recounts the film's story from first shot to last, while supplying his own chatty annotations. In addition to waxing confessional, he conjures the filmmaker's formidable personality.
Dyer will discuss his book at the Walker Art Center tonight at 7:30 p.m. The event will include Dyer reading from his book while parts of the film play on the screen behind him.
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.