This volume investigates the artistic philosophy, professional struggles, and personal history of Orson Welles through a series of candid, long-form conversations. The book features transcripts of extensive interviews conducted by fellow filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich, who provides a knowledgeable and intimate framework for the discussion. By utilizing these primary source dialogues, the text documents Welles's own reflections on his career, his approach to directing, and the shifting landscape of the film industry throughout the twentieth century.

This work is regarded as a primary resource for film scholars and enthusiasts seeking an unfiltered perspective on Welles's creative process. The text provides a dense, authoritative look at the director's life, serving as an essential companion for those studying the history of American film.