A new approach to a director whose contribution to cinema is often overshadowed his personal life, Polanski and Perception focuses on Roman Polanski's interest in the nature of perception and how this is manifested in his films. The incorporation of cognitive research into film theory is becoming increasingly widespread, with novel cinematic technologies and recent developments in digital projection making a strong grasp of perceptual psychology critical to fostering cognitive engagement.

Informed by the work of neuropsychologist R. L. Gregory, this volume focuses primarily on two sets of films: the Apartment trilogy of Repulsion, Rosemary's Baby and The Tenant; and the Investigation trilogy of Chinatown, Frantic and The Ninth Gate. Also included are case studies of Knife in the Water, Death and the Maiden and The Ghost. Polanski and Perception presents a highly original and engaging new look at the work of this influential filmmaker.