After just two seasons, "Deadwood " has become one of cable's highest rated series, a symbol of how great television can be when pushed to its limits. From the masterful acting to the surprisingly credible re-creation of a Western gold-rush town to the grippingly profane dialogue, "Deadwood "is television made at the highest level of craft."Deadwood "is a vividly illustrated and comprehensive companion volume that brings fans behind the scenes to get the full story of HBO" "'s award-winning drama--from Custer's opening of the Black Hills (and defeat by the Sioux), to the compelling story of the frontier Chinese and how they braved racism and formed a shadowy society in the west. With unprecedented access, the book gives readers in-depth interviews with cast, crew, writers, designers, and historians. Original, specially commissioned photography provides a fresh look at the people and places of "Deadwood ," with new portraits of the lead characters (based on actual persons), detailed depictions of the set (including the Gem Saloon and Jack Langrishe's theater), and images revealing how the show is made, from costuming and makeup to the mixing of "Deadwood " mud. A provocative, entertaining, and always evocative portrait of an era.