Hollywood Warts 'N' All is an anthology of scandal, trivia and anecdotes about the first one hundred years of American cinema. For more than a decade the author has gleaned thousands of items from hundreds of films, biographies and movie publications in general, focusing on the bizarre, the scandalous and the controversial aspects of Tinseltown and, in particular, the private and public lives of the stars themselves. As the title implies, it is a no-holds-barred portrait of an industry notorious for its promiscuity, eccentricities and outrageous behaviour.
In these pages the reader will find tales of 'the casting couch', racial discrimination, criminal activity, drug and alcohol abuse, shady deals and cover-ups. Myths and legends are exposed and war records examined. Accidental deaths, suicides and murders are scrutinised as well as censorship wrangles, ruined careers and sexual preferences.
On the set clashes, feuds and insults, romances and affairs, marriages and divorces are all depicted as they happened. Editing and continuity gaffs, humorous exchanges, mishaps and technical problems, tricks of the trade and casting anomalies are also featured. For movies based on actual events, the author has drawn comparisons between Hollywood's, quite often, ludicrous interpretations and historical fact.
Over five hundred films are featured alphabetically, from A Beautiful Mind to Zulu, from the industry's humble beginnings in 1905 to the present day. This book is for movie buffs intrigued by the unusual and seamier side of the business, for those more interested in what makes their idols tick than in their actual performances on the screen.
Review:
"Alan Royle has assembled asplendid collection of Hollywood scandals, bloopers and anecdotes from the past century. Movie fans and scholars will welcome Hollywood Warts 'n' All as both fabulous entertainment and a reference text. I heartily recommend it "
Assoc Professor Michael Sturma Program Chair, History and General Arts, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia.