Michael Munn Livres

Dans la première moitié du XXe siècle, l'industrie cinématographique américaine brasse les dollars. Pas étonnant qu'Hollywood ait très tôt attiré la convoitise de quelques-uns des plus grands noms du crime organisé. Lucky Luciano et Al Capone, pour ne citer qu'eux, s'affrontent par gangs interposés pour en prendre le contrôle. En s'infiltrant dans les syndicats de techniciens, de projectionnistes ou de figurants, ils mettent rapidement en place un système de racket diablement efficace. Ils tiennent à la gorge les grands studios, obligés de payer, et se mêlent au gratin du Tout-Hollywood, George Raft en tête, mais aussi Gary Cooper, Cary Grant et Howard Hughes. Thelma Todd, une plantureuse blonde platine, paiera de sa vie de s'être compromise avec "le parrain de tous les parrains". La belle Lana Turner ou Jean Harlow feront, elles aussi, les frais de ces liaisons dangereuses... A partir de témoignages de première main, comme ceux des acteurs Tony Curtis ou James Cagney, Munn construit un récit unique et haletant. Voici l'histoire vraie du crime organisé à Hollywood, comme on ne vous l'a jamais racontée.

Focusing on the tumultuous journey of a major figure in old Hollywood, the narrative captures the highs and lows of fame, exploring the complex relationships and challenges faced in the entertainment industry. It delves into the personal struggles, triumphs, and the impact of celebrity culture on the star's life, providing a vivid portrait of a bygone era filled with glamour and grit. The book reveals the behind-the-scenes realities of stardom, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the life of a legendary icon.

Offering an exclusive glimpse into the life of John Wayne, this book explores his journey as a legendary figure in Hollywood, celebrated for his roles in iconic Western films. It highlights his remarkable career, including an Academy Award-winning performance in True Grit, while delving into the personal and professional aspects that shaped his enduring legacy as a cultural hero.

James Stewart, a prominent figure in twentieth-century Hollywood, was celebrated as an underdog fighter, both on screen and in real life, contrasting with many of his contemporaries who were seen as larger-than-life icons of American virtues.

" ... In Nazi Germany, the cult of celebrity was the embodiment of [Adolf] Hitler's style of cultural governance. The country's greatest6 celebrities, whether they were actors, writers or musicians, could be one of two things: if they were compliant they were lauded, buit if they resisted - or were simply Jewish - they were traitors to be interned and murdered. ... [This] book is [an] ... account of Hitler's fantasy of power and stardom."--Back cover.