Orson Welles: A Biography
by Barbara Leaming
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Book Summary Information
Author: Barbara LeamingEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2004-07-01
ISBN: 0879101997
Number of pages: 578
Publisher: Limelight Editions
Book Reviews of Orson Welles: A Biography
Book Review: Boy Wonder, Cinematic Genius, Exile, Spendthrift, Failure, All of the Above
Summary: 4 Stars
I have read several books about Orson Welles, including biographies, critical reviews and essays. What sets this volume apart is the biographer had complete access to Welles and the cooperation of his many associates.
While the biography is thorough, some readers may complain that it is not entirely free of meandering. Of course, others may argue that the digressions on the part of Welles may be the best parts. Too many people recall Welles as the overweight commerial pitchman for Paul Masson wines and as a late night television guest. I was surprised to learn, therefore, that the first book that Welles (as a high school student) authored was a popular instructional manual for coaches on successful basketball techniques! Leaming reminds us that in his prime, Welles was a handsome and much sought after celebrity who managed to conduct romances with many of Hollywood's top female stars. Thrice married, Welles' most notable bride was Rita Hayworth. He also struggled against considerable odds to produce a dozen motion pictures inside and outside of the studio system while begging for the funds to complete his projects.
Welles was a prolific writer who continually revised his scripts (much to his producers' dismay), punched out a syndicated newspaper column and produced a novel. Contrary to critic Pauline Kael's influential essay, Welles did have a hand in writing the screenplay of "Citizen Kane."
Great fun.
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