I am a newcomer to Stephen Rebello's writing and I am so glad I have discovered his work. This book about the making of the 1950's classic On the Waterfront is a wonderful introduction to his work.
On the Waterfront stands as one of the seminal American films of the 1950's and any cinephile has heard about it at length, even before they actually watch it. It is hard to think that there is anything new about this film that I haven't heard before. This book is incredibly well researched and detailed. From the various people considered for casting in the main role (Frank Sinatra, Paul Newman) to Marlon Brando's initial reluctance to work with director Eliza Kazan due to the filmmaking naming names to the House on Un-American Activities to producer Sam Spiegel's constant interference to day-to-day shooting, there is little here not discussed. Even the most dedicated film buffs will find themselves learning a lot from this book.
This is not only a must-read for its wealth of information though. This is a very well written book. It is hard not to admire Rebello's way with words. Much of this book reads like a great novel. The introduction alone, where the author grapples with his complicated relationship with the movie and how long it took him to see it, could work as a great short story. Throughout the rest of the book, Rebello places us firmly in the time and culture the film was made in. Because of this we become fully swept up in this story as if we were there ourselves. This book is an important reminder that a great historian or critics needs not only to be knowledgeable and insightful but also a good writer.
If I were to find fault with this book, it is in that Rebello often times delights a little too much in Hollywood gossip. Some of these passages seem unnecessary and ultimately don't add much to the actual story the book is telling.
Despite some minor quibbles this is an excellent book, and I can't wait to dig deeper into this author's work.
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