Product Description
Rigorously researched and elegantly written, Cary Grant: A Biography is a complete, nuanced portrait of the greatest star in cinema history. Exploring Grant’s troubled childhood, ambiguous sexuality, and lifelong insecurities, as well as the magical amalgam of characteristics that allowed him to remain Hollywood’s favorite romantic lead for more than thirty-five years, Cary Grant is the definitive examination of every aspect of Grant’s professional and private life and the first biography to reveal the real man behind the movie star. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

GOOD
I so enjoyed this book full of revelations , so sent a copy to my brother in L. A.

Cary Grant vs. Cary Grant
As one can tell from the reviews that Mark Eliot's biography "Cary Grant" has received, readers' opinions about the material presented are mixed, and for a variety of reasons.The running thread seems to be that Eliot uses too few sources to substantiate some of his material, however I doubt that the average reader is more knowledgable about a topic they have never researched.While "Cary Grant: A Biography" is far from perfect, Eliot has done a commendable job fleshing out the enigma that was Cary Grant, not an easy task considering his vast output of movies and areas of his life that were not public knowledge for a long time.

Eliot begins the biography with a look at Grant winning an honorary Oscar for his lifetime's work in movies - an astonishing feat since Grant bucked the traditional system and angered Academy members early in his career, costing him for years to come in the popularity contest known as the Academy Awards.From there, Eliot traces the family background of Archibald Leach in Bristol, England, and the troubled marriage of his parents that led to their split.As a teenager, Grant joined Bob Pender's troupe of performers, working mainly as a stilt walker and acrobat, with whom he took a voyage to America that further cemented his desire to go into showbiz.A lifelong Charlie Chaplin fan, Grant worked the vaudeville circuits before settling down in New York, living hand to mouth at a variety of jobs before moving to Hollywood to try his luck in movies.

Upon arriving in Hollywood, Grant received a new name (the first name that of a character he had portrayed in a play, the last selected off a list of options from the studios), and began his ascent to stardom.Eliot traces Grant's earliest movie work with Mae West and his relationship with fellow actor Randolph Scott that angered studio executives, although both Grant and Scott seemed oblvious to the rumors that followed them.Eliot traces in detail all of Grant's movies, his failures and successes, and Grant's unprecedented decision to become a solo player rather than signing a multiple movie contract with one studio after his initial contract was up.Eliot explores Grant's tumultuous marraiges, his friendship with Howard Hughes, and the relationship that defined his moviemaking career - his inspired pairing and success with director Alfred Hitchcock.

"Cary Grant" by Marc Eliot is a thorough look at a screen legend who can still mesmerize audiences to this very day.Truth be told, there is no one like Cary Grant, either the onscreen creation or the real life incarnation.The biography is generally well-written and well-researched, however there are instances when Eliot seems to hypothesize rather than admit that little might be known about a certain topic.For any Cary Grant fan, Eliot's biography will answer many questions, while also raising a few, that help to paint a more complete picture of one of Hollywood's most timeless stars.

I Really Liked It
I read this book on a twenty hour flight just now and I have to say I highly recommend the book to everyone.Highly entertaining, full of interesting facts.A page turner from cover to cover

A piece of Cary Grant fan fiction
I could write a lengthy review of this book, but the fact that I frequently find myself looking to see how many pages are left should say a lot about what I think of the book.It regularly becomes a tedious read and is filled with so much conjecture and psychoanalytical nonsense that it starts to read like a piece of fantasist fan fiction.Early on in the book the author, Eliot, mentions that there is almost nothing known about Grant's activities during a couple years during Grant's early twenties, but that doesn't stop Eliot, who is all too happy to use guesswork to fill in the gaps.As such, it's hard to continue reading when the author pretty much comes out and tells you directly that he's making stuff up.

I'd look elsewhere in my quest to find out more about Cary Grant.

Reality is more interesting than Fantasy
I'm a movie critic who has always regretted that I began doing film star interviews too late to include Cary Grant among them.So, my appreciation for the man's talent, style, and charm is equal to anyone's, but the reason that I like this biography so much is that it reveals the (even more interesting) real man.

Gossip?Well, there was plenty of that in the thirties regarding Grant and Scott, but it's silly to suggest that their relationship was not more than just good buddies and just the stuff of innuendo; not only did it reflect Cary Grant's earlier life arrangements, but the level of detail in this book is impressive.Moreover, the underlying motivations of financial security and a need to be accepted by his peers as a superior artist credibly reflect both his background and his subsequent actions.

Ultimately, what I admire about the book is a sense of subtext, the meaning underneath the surface story of everyone's perfect man.His famous statement rings true:"Everyone wants to be Cary Grant.Even I want to be Cary Grant."

I still want to be Cary Grant as he was on the big screen, but I found this well-written behind-the-scenes description of the man to be more compelling than my unfulfilled wish that the image be the real person. ... Read more

Product Description
One of the most charismatic movie stars of all time, Cary Grant left an indelible mark on the film industry and on the culture at large. His sense of style--so integral to who he was both onscreen and off--has been admired, copied, emulated, and lauded, but never fully examined, until now.With rare and never-before-published photographs and exclusive interviews with film and fashion luminaries, this groundbreaking book reveals the style secrets that helped make Grant a fashion icon and a perennial inspiration to fans and fashion designers alike. On the 20th anniversary of Grant's death, fashion and style writer Richard Torregrossa makes a powerful case for why Cary Grant matters today more than ever. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

Genuine substance, written with style... about a man of style.
You think style and substance are mutually exclusive?... or at least incompatible? Richard Torregrossa (and Grant himself) lay that notion to rest.
Torregrossa has done extensive research to reveal insight into CG's character... the persona and the wardrobe. When RT writes about style and fashion he knows what he's talking about... And he does it in an unaffected, conversational manner. Some amusing anecdotes along the way while eschewing the by now over-played gossipy bits. Lots of b/w photos. (Would like to have seen a few more in color.) You'll end up appreciating CG, the man, his thoughtfulness and gracious manners. Oh, yeah, and the cut of his clothes. (Interesting to learn that Grant did not look good in hats. Now I don't feel so alone.) Highly recommended.

Suave dude
Another great American success story. This one involves using the power of creating a classy persona as a means of attaining it.

GREAT READ!
A TIME WHEN MEN WERE MEN. PEOPLE USED TO HAVE CLASS! ALMOST COULDNT BELIEVE GRANT'S LIFE. HE PERSEVERED NO MATTER WHAT HE FACED....AMAZING!!

What a FANTASTIC book.
I bought this book as part of a diet program to lose weight and redo my image. The book did not disappoint. Cary Grant is my insperation and I've already lost 28 lbs. in 36 days.He created his life from a poor boy with no mother in England to incredibly successful and rich Cary Grant. He did that consciously and made a fantastic life along the way. I so admire him on so many levels.This is much more than a book about style--it's about creating a life.

Biography of style makes for a stylish biography
When charting the influence of certain key Hollywood figures on the evolution of classic men's style, some observers have divided the relevant universe into camps of "Astaire Men" and "Grant Men." I am unabashedly an Astaire Man ... though I hasten to add far more by aspiration than achievement. There's nothing wrong with G. Bruce Boyer's brief 2005 book "Fred Astaire Style (Memoire)" -- I gave it four stars last October -- but I could only wish the great dancer, singer, and actor might someday receive the same in-depth treatment the arguably even greater actor Cary Grant does in this style-biography by Richard Torregrossa.

"Cary Grant: A Celebration of Style" is not a traditional biography (though of course there is a wealth of biographical details), nor is it an analysis of his films (though many of them are mentioned, with a particular focus on To Catch a Thief (Special Collector's Edition)). What it is, is a look at how Grant's distinctive and influential style evolved, what the details of that style were, and what lessons we mere mortals can learn from it. The book is packed with interesting details, revealing and entertaining anecdotes, a perhaps-surprising degree of psychoanalytical analysis, and names of designers, craftsmen, stockists, and other suppliers who helped provide Grant with the raw materials he molded into a style distinctly his own. Though very traditional, and seldom employing the surprising detail of pattern or accent the way Astaire did, nobody has carried it off so well since.

One of the things I was most interested to read was that Grant dressed much the same way off the set, and in his private life, as he did on-screen. Which is another way of saying, he was the real thing. Dressing well wasn't an affectation, or a way to get in the papers to publicize his films, but instead an honest reflection of who he was and how he lived. This encouraging discovery is perhaps one of the best lessons an aspiring Grant ... or even Astaire ... Man can take from this entertaining and educational biography of style. ... Read more

Product Description
More than a biography, this is a savvy portrait of how Archie Leach, born to a poor working-class family in Bristol, England became Cary Grant, one of Hollywood's most irresistible and admired celebrities of all time.Amazon.com Review
Writing with the low-key stylishness his subject deserves,British academic Graham McCann pays tribute to the working-classEnglishman who became "a democratic symbol of gentlemanly grace" tomoviegoers worldwide. Aptly subtitled "A Class Apart," the booksympathetically depicts Archie Leach--born into poverty, his mothercommitted to an asylum when he was nine--reinventing himself asCary Grant, whose debonair screen persona showed no signs of thesedifficult origins. A decorous account of Grant's private life(McCann dismisses talk of bisexuality as mere rumor) accompaniescogent descriptions of his performances. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

A Classy Biography of a Classy Star
I've read the good and bad reviews for this biography, but have to come down on the side of the good ones. Graham McCann does a fine job of isolating the salient features of Cary Grant's career and spends most of his time trying to come to grips with what made Grant such an iconic screen star. He provides most of the significant information regarding Grant's offscreen life, but doesn't go into it in excessive detail, so the narrative clocks in at a highly readable 238 pages. Other bios of famous stars are often burdened with the kitchen-sink approach to writing, where the author feels responsible for tossing in every good and bad incident and anecdote he can come up with, as well as numerous quotes from critics about the actor's every performance. McCann's treatment is far more selective, and his book thus shares some of the same elegance and taste for which his subject was renowned.

I appreciated McCann's cogent dismissal of other writers' allegations regarding Grant's homosexuality. Judging from this book, Grant, despite his five marriages, was not--unlike many of his Hollywood peers--a compulsive sexual animal, bedding down every gorgeous creature who crossed his path. Given his enormous charm and attractiveness, it's hard to imagine that he didn't bed many of his beautiful costars, but McCann offers little to substantiate such a suspicion, nor does he speculate much about it. Instead, he focuses on Grant's personality, which comes off as much more insecure than his screen image would suggest, and his accomplishments as an actor, husband, father, businessman, and human being.

Of the 346 pages in the book, the end matter (filmography, bibliography, notes, and index) take up 108 pages. The filmography and bibliography are essential, of course, but the 82 pages devoted to endnotes are annoying. The notes, of course, provide necessary documentation, but I think most readers of film star bios would prefer that the more substantive comments--as opposed to citations--be provided either in the text or in footnotes, so they don't have to keep turning to the back of the book. This is not a doctoral dissertation, after all.

McCann seems to avoid serious bloopers, but he does stumble badly when referring to the Antoinette Perry (Tony) Awards as the Antoine Perry Awards. Otherwise, aside from a few typos, the book is well written and thoughtfully organized. The sparsity of photos is a drawback; rights to publish these images are expensive, so this may be why more pictures aren't provided. For a photo-rich bio, I suggest Geoffrey Wansell's Cary Grant: Dark Angel (1996).

Cary Grant fan
Very intersting. My 2nd bio on Grant. I think you tend to rate things better if you are a fan of the person rated which I am. It put into a nice sequence the facts of his life. Kept me interested with photos, the factual and the gossip. Why else would we read about movie stars.

The Finest Estimate of an Inestimable Performer
This book would doubtless be better known, and better publicized, were it not published by a reputable university press. Don't mislead yourself, however. There's nothing tedious about McCann's book, which is very well written and measured in its judgments. Those wanting gossip and sensationalism should look elsewhere. Even those who know Grant's background and career will learn new things here. In a word: a splendid interpretation of an insidpensable performer.

The best biography on Cary Garnt I've read
It's detailed and well sourced and actually has quotes from people who actually knew him and lived through these events with the man. I felt like I actually had insight to the man rather than the image and the decades of gossip which seems to have been taken as fact by most of the other Cary Garnt biographers. He tells Cary Grant's story respectfully, but doesnt white wash the facts. The anecdotes as told by Cary's friends are fascinting, sometimes hilariously funny and often sad. He approaches the gossip as a researcher would and doesnt try to speculate or parse subjects to support hiw own personal oint of view or agenda.

This is the third biography I've read about Cary Garnt, and compared to the other very light offerings this was by far the best and most comprehensive. I learned for example that Cary Grant was not only a great charmer, but a shrewd businessman who consistently outwitted the studio bosses at every turn. I enjoyed learning about his incredible sense of honor which often times landed him in hot water and led to many of the vindictive rumors we are still hearing today. He hated the gossip columnists at the time and was embroiled in a very long and bitter battle with the likes of Hedda Hopper and Louella Parsons, who he once told to mind her GD business. Got to love the guy.

Great book.

Movie star.Quick, who do youthink of?Cary Grant.
Especially if your over 50. He looked, played & acted as the movie star he was. Women loved him. Men would have loved to be him. He was more often seduced than the seducer which was part of his charm. He never forgot who he was & where he came from: Archie Leech from Bristol, England. He was amiable & apolitical yet had a streak of independence & courage that led him to be one of the first stars to break with the studio system. That allowed him to be a free agent & pick the movies he wanted to do. It didn't always work out. Sometimes, the movies stank & he was the best thing in them. But most of his movies were money makers & that was really the only thing that counted. He was admired for his independence. He could be difficult to work with but was not tempermental. He was a professional working to perfect his craft as he liked to put it. This obsession with perfection did not work with the women he loved & he left four failed marriages in his wake. This failing apparently never occurred to him.
He didn't have to be pushed into old man roles & retired on his own terms. A class act. ... Read more

Product Description
Here is the most candid portrait of the legendary film actor Cay Grant that his fans will ever read, packed with new information about his career and life, and told with the honesty only a true intimate could provide. When Bill Royce met Cary Grant, he was a 25 year old fan magazine editor and the film star was near 70. As these two men from different generations forged a friendship that lasted until Cary's death, they found both had impoverished, often-brutal childhoods. With uncommon frankness, they stripped away the walls each had built in order to survive. To learn the truth about Bill's abusive past, Cary spared no detail about his own painful childhood. By opening up his home, and his heart, Cary revealed the facts behind the myths that had haunted his life. Glimpses into Cary's life include details of his alcoholic father and mentally disturbed mother; his early years in New York where Cole Porter, Noel Coward, and others helped groom an awkward young Englishman into a worldly matinee idol; his secret fears for his daughter, Jennifer; the lowdown on his leading ladies; a day when Cary was attacked by Minnie Mouse; a visit with Elvis Presley where he tells Cary about aliens; and Cary's crush on Black movie actress, Pam Grier. This is an honest, compassionate book for fans, for all who have kept secrets, and for survivors of abusive childhoods. Poignant and compelling, this book shows how a difficult childhood can be changed into a rewarding future. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Extraordinary Cary Grant Biography
Bill Royce tells a compelling narrative of honest friendship that elevates Cary Grant beyond his familiar silver screen stardom to Grant's rarer accomplishment of true self-awareness. Without the panoramic detail of a traditional biography, Royce gives us a full measure of the man Cary Grant in captivating sketches and strokes of Grant's insight and wisdom into the human soul.

"highlight" - it`s a must to read this book
I have already read some biogrphies of Cary Grant. All have been intersting and detailed. But this book is a special one and it`s worth every single page of it.
It`s written by an author with great emotions, respect and admiration for a man, like Cary Grant was one.
So this book shoes a different private but also positive aspect of his life and the person itself. If you want to know this fascinating man "Cary Grant" a little bit better, go and read this book!
You will love it!

Very Moving and Excellent
This is an extraordinary book, very touching and moving. This is the inside story on Cary Grant, a remarkable man, one very private, who allowed Bill Royce to tell his true story. It's reminscent of "Tuesdays With Morrie" and can be considered a self-help book because of Grant's wisdom conveyed therein, and his example of friendship. It's not just another boring movie star book, but interesting revelations about how he led his life, the choices he made, the friendships created, how he dealt with crises, and became "Cary Grant." Cary never stopped working on himself, to make himself a better person, and it's inspiring to learn that he was such a fine person. I could not put it down, and enthusiasitically recommend this remarkable book. Bill Royce reveals the true story, which only he could tell as he saw Cary or spoke to him on a daily basis for ten years. Cary Grant was a man of substance, a class act, and now you can see why and how he achieved such stature and recognition.

Cart GrabtL The Wizard of Beverly Grove
I really liked this book....well written a fast reading.

Mediocre
If you want to read every book on Cary Grant, I guess you should read this book.One of the most interesting parts is Bill Royce's retelling of his bizarre encounter with Phil Spector at a party.Spector was ranting and chasing Royce with a gun because Spector thought Royce was Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys.

Cary Grant told his daughter, Jennifer, and last wife, Barbara, not to believe gossip about him being homosexual.He said after he died, people would come out of the woodwork with rumors and innuendo regarding his life and sexual preferences.He told them not to believe the vicious gossips.

Now Bill Royce says Cary Grant told him not to tell this until after he was gone, but that he had homosexual experiences, and was infatuated with Randolph Scott, and had a fling with some male assistant while he was making a movie with Sophia Loren.But all this was compartmentalized, and his gay experiences were in his past.Ok, whatever you say Bill.

Why did Bill Royce do this?Did he need money?I don't know if I believe what he alleges Grant told him, but even if Cary Grant did admit these things to Royce, I don't want or need to hear it.

Cary Grant's old girlfriend Maureen Donaldson supplied the photographs for this book.In her book, "An Affair to Remember," she says Grant denied being gay or having gay experiences.Ok, so Bill Royce, who worked with Maureen and knew both her and Grant very well, says Grant confided in him about his same-sex experiences, but Grant denied these sort of things to Maureen.Didn't Cary Grant think Maureen and Bill might compare notes?Of course he would.He wasn't stupid.

I've read better.I've read worse.

I will say there are parts of this book that are very interesting.As a whole it's so-so.
... Read more

Product Description
A look at the life of Cary Grant describes his parents, favorite movies, his social life, and his marriages and features anecdotes by the people who knew Grant personally. Reprint. K. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Delightful from start to finish
If you're looking for a biography that digs for dirt this is not it. I suppose if I wanted to criticise this book I could say it gushes a little about Cary Grant but who really could avoid that? Wonderful stories from dozens of credible sources who are directly quoted in their very personal recollections of conversations and anecdotes about this man. Everyone from great actors such as Gregory Peck to great directors like Hitchcock (and all the wives in between) absolutely loved CG. There's a million examples of his style, his generosity and thoughtfulness, it goes on and on. I thoroughly enjoyed every word.

Evenings with Cary Grant
I purchased this book for my dad for his 79th birthday.He absolutely LOVED it!!

CG fan
My 2nd bio this month on Grant. I had seen some recent favorite movies of his. I'm certainly not an unbiased Grant fan; I have always loved his movies. I liked this book because of so many direct quotes by him. Assuming thsee are factual it gives you a great insight into his shy character which I had missed some of in the first bio I read. He was a great actor but had a sensitivity side that I had never seen. Nicely laid out. I'm more a fan now than I was!

YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK
"Evenings with Cary Grant" is the most incredible book.A sort of documentary on paper, Nancy Nelson uses an interview/intercut format and cleverly weaves a narrative through the most revealing and often amusing anecdotes.Cary Grant talks and then Gregory Peck.Katherine Hepburn says something, and then we hear from Audrey Hepburn.As one reviewer said, "When you get to the end, you feel as though you've lost a good friend."Nelson uses no conjecture or supposition.All her sources are primary.An announcement in a recent Sunday "New York Times" said that Nelson will speak about "The Cary Grant Few People Knew" at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on June 15.I've got my ticket!

A beautiful life.
It is no easy thing to become so successful in one's career and yet be universally loved and respected as Cary Grant was in his lifetime.

Thanks to the author for focusing on the good of the man and ignoring the rest.He was a good man and that is enough.Ms. Nelson does a good job in giving us an idea of who the man really was--a gentleman who was loyal to his friends, if not his wives...but in the end, even THEY still loved him after it was over.

My only disappointment (not the author's fault) was to find out that Cary Grant hated "Arsenic and Old Lace," one of my favorite movies. ... Read more

Product Description
Richard Schickel's text, combining critical analysis and a re-interpretation of all the available biographical information, masterfully maps the intersections where a great star's personal history and his screen personality met in a style as elegant, graceful and witty as the actor himself. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A nice analysis of Grant's film career...
Often, to sell copies, authors of celebrity biographies stoop to including gossip, rumors, and throughly unsubstantiated claims to ruin the reputation of the celebrity. Among other things, the nice thing about Cary Grant A Celebration is that it does not need to resort to these tactics, which are very tasteless, not to mention disrespectful for the celebrity involved.

In addition to having its lack of gossip as a recommendation, A Celebration is really a clear, interesting analysis of Cary Grant's career. It goes through each movie he made, reviews it, and presents a comprehensive theory on Grant's work and the times and man that led to its creation. The reviews, which are blended in to the narrative, are very useful for fans who want to know which movies are worth watching besides the obvious choices.

So, anyhow, this book has a simple but truthful biography of a real Hollywood legend, whose talent and originality on screen was only matched by his reticence and desire for privacy off of it. It is also a useful reference. For all of Cary Grant's fans and anyone interested in classic cinema in general, this is highly recommended. If you aren't interested in any of the above things, why are you looking here anyhow?

Flowery, but no substance
Richard Schickel seems to love Cary Grant.And good on him.What he fails to do is translate that love to a book that should convey to the reader the life of Cary Grant.

He spends most of the book waxing lyricalabout the different roles he has played and how his own personal feelingsare represented in the roles he undertakes.

In a book that claims"to be more than a review of his movies" Richard Schickelcompletely bypasses his non-film achievements and notoriety.Maybe he istrying to shield the reader from his more questionable side.

The onlyrefreshing deviance from the morbidity is the suggestion of hishomosexuality, which is quickly refuted by another few pages of drippingprose.

I am now searching for another book to provide me an insight intothis man.This one did not do it for me. ... Read more

Product Description
A virtual personal photo album, "Cary Grant: A Life in Pictures" gives the highlights of the actor's career from his working-class beginnings to stardom as the ultimate symbol of style and sophistication. Packed with photos and information, this pictorial biography is sure to please fans of this most debonair of film stars. 135 color & b&w photos. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Cary Grant coffee table book
This is a very nice book with wonderful pictures I have never seen before. This was a great purchase that I will enjoy for many years. This book is a must for all Cary Grant fans. Thank You Jenny

My Favorite Cary Grant Book!
This is a must own book!It is so full of photos of Cary Grant and details so much of his life.I would call this a picture book, and promise you won't be disappointed!I had the privelege of meeting the author and having her sign my copy.She is a fellow eMail Warbride, is funny, witty, and a wonderful person.She has written several other books that are well worth owning as well.Do youself a favor, buy this book today! ...

SUPERB
Jenny does an excellent job showing off the magnificent CG. This is a must for all interested in Cary and his films. There are beautiful publicity shots and movie stills. Great Job Jenny!

P.S. Hey Brian Thanks!!!!!!

excellent! A must have for any Cary Grant fan.
I received this book as a gift.It serves as an excellent guide to one of the most graceful and wonderful men of Hollywood.The pictures are beautifully arranged and capture the essence of who Mr. Grant was.Eventhe youngest Cary Grant fan will want to own this book.

Top-notch photo biography.
Indeed, this book is one meant to be displayed.I was immediately struckby the slick, high-quality paper used to enhance the many, many photos ofthe dashing Cary Grant.Ms. Curtis leads us through Grant's life withcomprehensive, yet concise captions beneath each photo.The dignity andcharm in her writing reflect the beloved characteristics that personifiedCary Grant. ... Read more

Product Description
Including 150 photographs, an incisive biography of a classic film star tells not only about Cary Grant's seventy-two movies, but also reveals his behind-the-scenes life, especially focusing on his marriages and subsequent divorces.Amazon.com Review
Cary Grant epitomizes the glamour and style of Hollywood's golden age. And the photographs in Geoffrey Wansell's book, Cary Grant: Dark Angel, capture that essence. The pictures--studio publicity stills, movie posters, candid paparazzi snapshots and family photos--carry the reader through the stages of Grant's life as he moves from one role to another and one love to another. The photos are so good they speak for themselves. Quotes from such celebrities as Marlene Dietrich and Sophia Loren and film critic Pauline Kael add to the viewing pleasure in thisencounter with the dashing Hollywood icon. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN!
GREAT WRITING, WELL PACED, PUTS YOU INSIDE GRANT'S HEAD AND EVEN HIS HEART!
WELL BALANCED TREATMENT OF CONTROVERSIAL ASPECTS OF ONE OF MY HEROES' LIFE!
BUY IT AND ENJOY IT, THE LIFE STORY, IN-DEPTH, OF A GREAT ENTERTAINER, AND EVEN GREATER, MAN'S MAN!

Embarrassing packing of a wonderful book.
The book itself is good; just not the way the item was packed.

In all the years I've ordered from Amazon, including products from outside suppliers, this is the first time where the book's many sides (including the front glossy over hardbound cover -- 7 or 8 long, deep but fresh crisp parallel creases across whole wideth and Grant's face; top edge of the back glossy cover has 1/4 inch wide folded back across the whole width.) They were obviously new damages caused from being caught in too tight-fitting a padded envelop when the book was carelessly put in.Unfortunately, it was a birthday gift; there wasn't time enough to order another in time.

Cary Grant: Dark Angel
The reader will learn about different sides to this complex man.Some grammatical errors do not detract from the overall but it mostly ranks high for the multitude of photos, while divulging many tidbits about his movie roles and numerous romances.Doubtful that more intimate details will ever be available; maybe that is just as well.He was a fabulous entertainer, unique and irreplaceable.

Pure Angel
This is a great chronological account of CG's movies and his life in between and during each one as he made them.There are lot of common pictures, and some you rarely see.All the same, though, it's a wonderful biography, one of the best I've read.

CARY GRANT :Dark Angel by Geoffrey Wansell
I found this book to be a wonderful insight into the glorious life of Cary Grant....many have said it before ,however the combination of wonderful photographs and truthful respectful
wording makes this a must for Cary Grant Fans ....just great!!! ... Read more

Product Description
In an era when glamour was prevalent, Cary Grant became one of Hollywood's iconic leading men, starring in over 70 films, including the Hitchcock films, "North by Northwest", "Suspicion", "Notorious" and "To Catch a Thief". Yet Cary Grant started off life as Archie Leach in the distinctly unglamorous milieu of provincial, post-Victorian Bristol. The authors of this biography explore how he overcame the difficulties of his dysfunctional and unprivileged background and built his career. A reporter once asked Grant, "Who is Cary Grant"? His telling response was, "When you find out, tell me". This volume provides an objective critique of the real, fallible man behind the projected screen image. Grant's private life was kept strictly secret at the time, when there was rigid studio control of stars and much less press intrusion than in contemporary times. Here, the authors uncover what happened off the film sets. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

A must-have for Cary Grant fans
That voice. Those looks. The suave, self-confident manner. Humor and perfect comedic timing. All that was Cary Grant is brilliantly captured in this photobiography of the Hollywood star, part of the Movie Icons Series published by Taschen.

This biography begins with a short, two-page overview of Grant's life, highlighting the most important aspects of his personal and professional life. As most fans of this Hollywood icon know, he was born Archibald Alexander Leach in 1904, in Bristol, England. When he was nine years old he was told that his mother had died. But in truth, she had been wrongly committed to a mental institution. Learning the truth some nineteen years later (and securing her release), his mother's "death" and subsequent confinement had a profound affect on the actor's life.

Leach came to the United States in 1920 and traveled throughout America with a vaudeville act. Signing a contract with Paramount Pictures in 1931, the young actor changed his name to Cary Grant and the rest, as they say, is history.

The bulk of the book is filled with fabulous photos of Grant's career, from his uncredited appearance as a sailor in Singapore Sue (1932) to his last movie, Walk Don't Run (1966). These photos are a visual treat for fans of Cary Grant, and even the rather strange photo of Grant dressed in a turtle outfit for Alice In Wonderland (1933) is a treat.

Like the other books in this series, the text is written in English, French and German. The majority of the photos are stills from movies, there are very few candid photos and those too, are from Grant's movies, not his personal life. Along with the movie stills are "Lobby Cards," magazine covers and posters. At the end of the book is a one-page biography of Grant's life, noting dates of marriages, divorces, important roles, and other significant events. This is followed by a filmography, noting each movie's title, release date, and director.

Along with the photo captions, the author has included numerous quotes, most from Grant himself, although there's also a spattering of comments from friends and colleagues. "My formula for living is quite simple. I get up in the morning and I go to bed at night. In between, I occupy myself as best I can." - Cary Grant. From Alfred Hitchcock, "One doesn't direct the marvelous Cary Grant, one simply puts him in front of a camera and lets the audience identify with him."

Quill says: A photobiography of Cary Grant, which is a must-have for all true fans of this classic Hollywood star. ... Read more

Product Description
A study of the true story of the man behind the debonair image details the fears and obsessions that have haunted Grant's film career, his childhood, marriages, relationships with women and his only child, and his retreat into privacy. ... Read more

Product Description
Cary Grant, one of the most enduring stars in the history of Hollywood history, is the subject of this unique bio-bibliography that places equal emphasis on the actor's professional and private lives. Each chapter examines a different aspect of Grant's life and career, beginning with a biography and a chronology of important events. Comprehensive listings of Grant's films, stage appearances, radio and television credits, and recordings thoroughly trace his professional life, while an annotated bibliography provides important material for further research. "This entry in the series is particularly well written, and includes considerable and valuable documentation. Recommended." Classic Images ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Cary Grant;A bio-bibliography
The book writes about so many episodos I would like to know.I am reading it everyday using English-Japanese dictionery and quite enjoyable.I really think it was so nice that I got it.

THE Cary Grant Reference Book - A Must-Have for Die-Hard Fan
The most comprehensive Cary Grant filmography available,including a chapter-long informative biography. From his earliest stage appearances to cameos after he retired, this book lists them, even to include a chronology of the significant events in his life.Stage, film, radio, television, magazines, books, records ... if Cary did it, you'll most likely find it listed.

You'll find info on the casts, dates, studios, directors, crews, plot synopsis, reviews and commentaries on all his films. The commentaries often include information about the making of the film, choice of stars, profitability, working relationships, and events that occurred in Cary's life during the making of the film.

I'd call Buehrer's book my Cary Grant encyclopedia.Probably the book I turn to most often.If you want a comprehensive guide to Cary's work,this is it.You won't find better.

One note: While this book IS the ultimate Cary Grant reference book, it is not a Cary Grant photo book.There are very few photos.If you're looking for a great Cary Grant photo book to drool over, get "Cary Grant: A Life in Pictures" by Jenny Curtis. ... Read more

Product Description
Harlan Michaels is a powerful trial lawyer who usually flees romance as quickly as his Gucci loafers can carry him.He's immersed in a deadly wheel case when he meets Lana Stewart, a therapist, who is treating his orphaned client.He's immediately intrigued by the long legged blonde's indifference to his wealth and stature.Lana longs for a romance that's like an old Cary Grant movie.To plead his case, Harlan will need the courage of David and the wisdom of Solomon. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Awesome!
A great brake-out effort by a talented new author.Intrigue and humor from beginning to end.Each encounter between the leads leaves you craving for more and Ms. Mathews delivers.I eagerly await her next work. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

wrong book
Can't review this book since I was sent the wrong one..didn't bother to take the time or make the expense to send it back. Very disappointing to spend money on something I didn't want.If I didn't have the money, you can be sure no book would have been sent at all, but taking my money fro the wrong thing seems to be easy. Won't be ordering books again from this website.

Great Read!
I just spent the entire day reading this book. Maureen Donaldson was not only Cary Grant's long time lover but also a fellow Brit and a former professional interviewer. This book has everything you could ask for in a biography. All of the major rumors about Cary are addressed including homosexuality, women's underwear, LSD use, and his relationship with Sophia Loren. It discusses his former marriages and his feeling toward co-stars, as well as an eye-opening revelation about Mae West. It also includes his likes, dislikes, habits and daily routines. It discusses the complexities of his relationship with his mother and the great admiration he had for his only child. Miss Donaldson does not spare the details of the ups and downs of their relationship which was passionate and at times volatile. My fear going into the book was that my image of one of the greatest film stars of all time would be tarnished. Instead, I was left with a richer understanding of who Cary Grant really was. It affirms that much like Michael Jackson, tragic experiences in childhood continue to be played out in insecurity and fear into adulthood no matter how much wealth and fame one attains. In my opinion this book is a truthful and unbiased account that I will enjoy reading again.

A Glimpse Behind the Dashing Mask
When Maureen Donaldson was in in her late 20s and Cary Grant was approaching 70, they embarked on a relationship that would transform her life.It's hard to tell if their four-year love affair changed him at all, but I hope he looked back with some perspective and humour.

Age clearly made a difference in how these two viewed the world and each other.Maureen, while a successful interviewer (and, at Cary's suggestion, photographer), was still immature and it shows in how she handles her various problems with Mr. Grant.He, on the other hand, is chauvinistic and terribly untrusting; he records private conversations and has her followed when they aren't traveling together, and he assumes that every time she smiles at another person, she's planning an assignation.

The reason for which she finally leaves him is incredibly inane, especially since he'd given her so many truly good reasons to leave in those four years.Based on the behavior she describes here, I don't know that I would have lasted four months.He was gorgeous, he was often kind and loving, but he was sometimes unbearable, and no amount of charm can outweigh the childish tantrums that his lifelong issues with women and trust brought on.

Some have had problems with Ms. Donaldson's writing this book at all, but I find it to be a necessary one.We all know that Cary Grant was a gifted actor, and that he was handsome and dashing.Instead of yet another hagiography, what we receive here is a look at what life is like when you're sharing space with a legend, and how it is rarely what you see in the movies.

Excellent, insightful book!!!!!
Like an above reveiwer siad: I felt like I knew Mr. Grant after reading this. Ms. Donaldson has written a superb book revealing the real Cary Grant. We, the readers, see Mr. Grant for the real person he is. A gentleman, an overprotective loving father, an insecure, private man. and she writes of her relationship with Cary. Their many many good times together. The insecurities of Cary's that drove her nuts and finally ended their relationship, and her relationship with Cary's daughter Jennifer. Her and Jennifer became close friends.I felt like I knew Cary Grant inside and out after reading this. I recommend this book to all fellow Cary Grant fans!!!

So Intresting
I really enjoyed reading this book. Cary Grant might be very complex and
difficult person to live with.Yet he is gentle and kind.That is enough.I
simply feel sorry that Maureen Donaldson didn't marry him.She Couldn't
realize how much she was loved!She will also regret not marrying him for the
rest of her life!! (Sorry for my bad English) ... Read more

Product Description
Da Gama, Cary Grant, and the Election of 1934 is the story of an election for mayor in a Massachusetts mill town in 1934 as seen through the eyes of a ten-year-old Portuguese boy, Seraphin. The incumbent, a Yankee, is challenged by candidates from five different ethnic groups—Irish, French Canadian, Polish, Portuguese, and Jewish. A portrait of each candidate is subtly drawn and we meet campaign workers like Teddy, who has enlisted to help secure a teaching position for his daughter, and Jimmy, a numbers runner who proudly passes out cards announcing his appointment as Assistant Campaign Manager, North End.

But the novel is more than just the story of an election. The specter of the Depression hovers over every scene. Laura, SeraphinÂ’s big sister, describes her job as a fruit-store clerk in every excruciatingly painful detail. And the allure of America is always present for Seraphin in his desire and longing to lead an American life. America also affects the remarkable Secundo B. Alves, the Portuguese candidate. SecundoÂ’s memories of the Azores are honest, authentic, and touching. But when he is defeated in the primary, he quickly bounces back as a supporter of the FrenchmanÂ’s candidacy and rewrites his Vasco Da Gama imagery. Secundo is showing the adaptability it takes to succeed in America. Da Gama, Cary Grant, and the Election of 1934 is a valuable historical document and an artistic triumph. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A must have for Archibald Leach fans.
In my opinion Cary Grant was one of the greatest actors to ever walk in front of a movie camera and this wonderful books covers all of his movies from his uncredited appearance in the 10-minute SINGAPORE SUE (1932) to WALK, DON'T RUN (1966) with hundreds of photographs, full credits, synopsis and much to my delight: vintage film reviews, even bad ones!Some of them are laugh out loud funny, brutal and full of venom.One even said that I WAS A MALE WAR BRIDE was not for the "squeamish"!What the hell?

Besides the films, there is a solid, but short, biography featuring dozens of great personal and behind the scenes photographs.And if that's not enough there's a listing of all of Cary's radio and television appearances and even a list of his special appearances in movies, including war effort shorts.

I've read this book cover to cover many times and still pick it up just to browse and for reference.I really wish I could see some of the films that have never made it on DVD, especially the 1933 live action version of ALICE IN WONDERLAND where Cary wears a turtle outfit the whole time!

Complete Films of Cary grant
An invaluable resource.

Covers every film from Sinners in the Sun to Walk Don't Run.

Lots of nice pics. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A must for Grant fans
It has been many years since I read this book, so I will make this review short and sweet.If you are a fan of Cary Grant, you will be well rewarded with an enjoyable read if you pick up a used copy of this book (out of print).Ms Trescott doscusses the more lurid allegations about Grant, but doesn't make any unfounded statements about their validity. ... Read more