In this critical study, Joseph McBride offers new ways to understand Wilder’s work, stretching from his days as a reporter and screenwriter in Europe to his distinguished as well as forgotten films as a Hollywood writer and his celebrated work as a writer-director.
Moviegoers often assume Frank Capra's life resembled his beloved films. A man of the people faces tremendous odds and, by doing the right thing, triumphs! But as Joseph McBride reveals in this meticulously researched, definitive biography, the reality was far more complex, a true American tragedy. číst celé
This biography provides rare insights into Ford's life as well as his prodigious film career (spanning over 140 movies), and also reveals his work as a spy for the US government in the years leading up to World War II
In this comprehensive biography of Steven Spielberg, Joseph McBride explores the filmmaker's multifaceted personality and the personal nature of his commercial work. Drawing on extensive research and insights akin to his biography of Frank Capra, McBride interviews over 325 of Spielberg's friends and associates, many speaking publicly for the first time. He paints a vivid portrait of Spielberg's remarkable childhood and early filmmaking endeavors, revealing the cultural and personal influences that shaped his artistic identity. McBride chronicles Spielberg's transformation from an introverted outcast to a precocious talent who secured a Universal contract at just twenty-one. The biography delves into Spielberg's complex relationship with his Jewish heritage and his experiences with anti-Semitism, which motivated him to create films that appealed to a broad audience. Through perceptive analysis, McBride illustrates how Spielberg channeled his fears and obsessions into films that have captivated millions. Spielberg's artistic ambitions evolved, culminating in powerful yet uneven works like The Color Purple and Empire of the Sun, leading to the emotional depth and courage displayed in Schindler's List, widely regarded as a cinematic masterpiece.