The Brothers Mankiewicz: Hope, Heartbreak, and Hollywood Classics (Hollywood Legends)
Discover the untold story of The Brothers Mankiewicz, pioneers of Hollywood’s golden era. This captivating book from Arcadia Publishing explores their legacy of hope, heartbreak, and timeless classics, offering readers an insightful journey into the heart of cinematic history.
Despite triumphs as diverse as Monkey Business and Cleopatra, and Pride of the Yankees and Guys and Dolls, the witty, intellectual brothers spent their Hollywood years deeply discontented and yearning for what they did not have—a career in New York theater. Herman, formerly an Algonquin Round Table habitué, New York Times and New Yorker theater critic, and playwright-collaborator with George S. Kaufman, never reconciled himself to screenwriting. He gambled away his prodigious earnings, was fired from all the major studios, and drank himself to death at fifty-five. While Herman drifted downward, Joe rose to become a critical and financial success as a writer, producer, and director, though his constant philandering with prominent stars like Joan Crawford, Judy Garland, and Gene Tierney distressed his emotionally fragile wife who eventually committed suicide. He wrecked his own health using uppers and downers in order to direct Cleopatra by day and finish writing it at night, only to be very publicly fired by Darryl F. Zanuck, an experience from which he never fully recovered.
For this first dual portrait of the Mankiewicz brothers, Sydney Ladensohn Stern draws on interviews, letters, diaries, and other documents still in private hands to provide a uniquely intimate behind-the-scenes chronicle of the lives, loves, work, and relationship between these complex men.
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The Brothers Mankiewicz: Hope, Heartbreak, and Hollywood Classics (Hollywood Legends) offers an insightful journey into the lives and legacies of two of Hollywood’s most influential figures. Published by Arcadia Publishing, this compelling book delves into the personal and professional stories of the Mankiewicz brothers, exploring their contributions to the golden age of cinema and the enduring impact they have had on Hollywood storytelling. This volume is an essential addition for film enthusiasts and history buffs alike, providing a richly detailed narrative that balances the triumphs and challenges faced by the brothers throughout their careers. Through engaging prose and carefully curated content, readers gain a deeper understanding of the creative forces behind some of the most memorable classics in film history. The book’s thoughtful exploration of themes such as ambition, creativity, and resilience resonates beyond the screen, offering inspiration and reflection for everyday life. Whether you are a student of film, a scholar, or simply someone who appreciates the art of storytelling, The Brothers Mankiewicz enriches your knowledge and appreciation of Hollywood’s cultural heritage. Featuring a blend of historical context, biographical detail, and critical analysis, this book stands out as a definitive resource that captures the spirit and complexity of its subjects. Its accessible yet professional tone makes it suitable for a wide audience, enhancing the reader’s experience by connecting cinematic history with broader human experiences. This work is more than a biography; it is a tribute to creativity and perseverance that continues to influence contemporary filmmaking and popular culture.
| Attributes | Value |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Arcadia Publishing |
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