OCT 2015: Lion of Hollywood: The Life and Legend of Louis B. Mayer

[Samantha]

Our group read for October and November will be Scott Eyman's Lion of Hollywood

What do you hope to learn from this book?

Have you ever read any of Eyman's books before? What do you think of his writing style?

Mayer was a polarizing figure. Based on your current knowledge of him, do you like him or dislike him? Why?

[John]

Samantha, I purchased a copy of his biography of John Wayne (The Life and Legend). I just started it, and am finding it quite interesting. I also read Robert Wagner's book, Pieces of My Heart, that he co-wrote, and enjoyed it very much.
As far as Louis B. Mayer, I don't have a very high opinion of him, but that is based on what i have read about him as far as he was mentioned in biographies of other people or histories of film and the film industry. I am looking forward to a much more in-depth study of his life from a respected and knowledgeable writer and historian, and Scott Eyman certainly is that person. Thank you for choosing this book.

[Samantha]

Here is the reading schedule:
WEEK 1: Chapters 1-3
WEEK 2: Chapters 4 & 5
WEEK 3: Chapter 6
WEEK 4: Chapters 7 & 8
WEEK 5: Chapters 9-11
WEEK 6: Chapters 12 & 13
WEEK 7: Chapters 14 & 15
WEEK 8: Chapters 16, 17 & epilogue

[Samantha]

I am enjoying this book so far. Eyman is a good writer so the book is both informative and readable. I really loved the prologue because there was so much input from big stars. It is a sign of good things to come.

Mayer seems like a driven person, a workaholic for sure, but that seems to have been necessary to thrive at this period in history.

[Samantha]

I may be one of the only people reading this and I am behind in the schedule, but I am enjoying it while I am reading.

What do you think of the comment that the writers at MGM were all 2nd rate? Is it possible for them to have made such quality films without good writers? How essential is the writer in the process?

[Charlie]

Samantha I am going to start it next week hopefully. Looks super good. I wrote about MGM in the 30s for my MA thesis 10yrs ago so I'm looking forward to getting back into that world.
So of course I haven't read that comment about the writers but offhand I can't see how one could think that - MGM was THE studio! More later :)

[Jules]

Charlie wrote: "Samantha I am going to start it next week hopefully. Looks super good. I wrote about MGM in the 30s for my MA thesis 10yrs ago so I'm looking forward to getting back into that world.
So of course ..."

Agree totally Charlie, MGM was the one others tried to match if not exceed. Sorry Samantha, I have been busy doing volunteer work and have only read a little at the moment.