The sequel to a collection of articles on silent movie stars, this book continues the exploration of Hollywood's golden age. It features a range of new insights and stories, reflecting the author's decade-long dedication to capturing the essence of classic cinema. With a playful nod to iconic comedy duos, the title suggests a blend of nostalgia and humor, appealing to both film enthusiasts and those interested in the behind-the-scenes stories of legendary performers.
Set against the backdrop of New York's vibrant theater scene during La Belle Époque, this biography explores the life of Anna Held, a renowned musical comedy star who rose from an impoverished childhood to fame. Known for her glamour and charm, she was instrumental in shaping the Ziegfeld Follies alongside her husband, Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. The narrative delves into her personal struggles, including her hidden Jewish heritage and tumultuous relationships, while highlighting her contributions to the war effort in Europe. This work uncovers the complexities of a remarkable woman in early 20th-century entertainment.
Exploring the evolution of dance in the twentieth century, this narrative follows a couple who transformed the art form and its cultural significance. Their innovative approaches challenged traditional norms, leading to a new understanding of movement and expression. The book delves into their personal and professional journeys, highlighting the impact of their work on contemporary dance and society. Through their story, readers gain insight into the broader cultural shifts of the era.
Exploring the lives of silent film actors, this collection features 41 essays that delve into the careers of both iconic stars like Rudolph Valentino and lesser-known figures such as Clarine Seymour. The narratives encompass a range of experiences, from tragic fates to unexpected successes, illustrating the vibrant history of the silent film era from the 1890s to the late 1920s. Updated from earlier publications in Classic Images, these essays provide fresh insights into personalities previously overlooked in film history.
Illustrated and meticulously-researched, this book traces the life and
contribution to film of one of Hollywood's most renowned actors of the silent
era.
Eve Golden's heartfelt account delves into Theda Bara's extraordinary life, offering a vivid portrayal of the iconic screen vamp. Through this engaging narrative, readers are taken on a journey that feels akin to time travel, providing intimate insights into Bara's career and persona. Golden's work captures the essence of a legendary figure in film history, making it a compelling read for those interested in classic cinema and the enigmatic women who shaped it.
Focusing on the life and career of Lupe Velez, this biography explores her rise as one of Hollywood's first successful Latin-American stars amidst the challenges of xenophobia and her distinctive Mexican accent. Velez's versatility as an actress and singer shone during the silent film era and the advent of talkies, culminating in her iconic role as Carmelita Fuentes in the Mexican Spitfire series. Author Eve Golden delves into Velez's tumultuous personal life, revealing a compelling narrative shaped by fame, romance, and tragedy, while offering a nuanced portrayal of her legacy in Hollywood.
"Jayne Mansfield (1933-1967) was driven not just to be an actress but to be a star. One of the most iconic sex symbols of her time, she was known for her platinum blonde hair, hourglass figure, outrageously low necklines, and flamboyant lifestyle. Hardworking and ambitious, Mansfield proved early in her career that she was adept in both comic and dramatic roles, but her tenacious search for the spotlight and her risqué promotional stunts caused her to be increasingly snubbed in Hollywood. In this joyful biography, the first definitive one of Mansfield, Eve Golden reveals the star that Andy Warhol called "the poet of publicity" as a smart, determined woman. While she always had her sights set on the silver screen, Mansfield got her start as Rita Marlowe in the Broadway show Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?. She made her film debut in the low-budget drama Female Jungle (1955) before landing the starring role in The Girl Can't Help It (1956). Mansfield followed this success with a dramatic role in The Wayward Bus (1957), winning a Golden Globe for New Star of the Year, and starred alongside Cary Grant in Kiss Them for Me (1957). Despite her popularity, her appearance as the first celebrity in Playboy and her nude scene in Promises! Promises! (1963) cemented her reputation as an outsider. Golden looks beyond Mansfield's flashy public image and tragic death to fully explore her life and legacy. This funny, engaging biography offers a nuanced portrait of a fascinating woman who loved every minute of life and lived every minute to the utmost"-- Provided by publisher
