Blowing the Bloody Doors Off
And Other Lessons in Life
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4.1 • 17 Ratings
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- $11.99
Publisher Description
Now in his 85th year, Hollywood legend Michael Caine shares wisdom and stories from his remarkable career in this "engrossing" memoir that "shines with positive energy" (Library Journal, starred review).
One of our best-loved actors, Michael Caine has starred in over 100 films in his six-decade career, spanning classic movies like Alfie, Zulu, and The Italian Job (the inspiration for the book title) to playing Alfred opposite Christian Bale's Batman in Christopher Nolan's blockbuster Dark Knight trilogy. Caine has excelled in every kind of role--with a skill that's made it look easy.
Caine knows what success takes. He's made it to the pinnacle of his profession from humble origins. But as he says, "Small parts can lead to big things. And if you keep doing things right, the stars will align when you least expect it." Still working and more beloved than ever, Caine now shares everything he's learned-and "his fans will be rewarded, as will anyone seeking an enjoyable, inspirational read" (Library Journal).
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Oscar-winning British actor Caine (What's It All About?) mines his long career for entertaining anecdotes and life lessons in this genial memoir, taking readers from his childhood in a London slum to his years as a struggling unknown one studio canceled his contract because an executive thought he looked gay to major roles in hits such as Alfie, Sleuth, and Batman Begins. Much of the book is blithe showbiz picaresque, stocked with A-listers including John Wayne and Beyonc and full of filmmaking pratfalls. ("The bees were shitting on us," he writes of a scene in The Swarm, which he cheerfully allows may be "the worst movie ever made.") From these vignettes, Caine distills advice on topics including acting mechanics ("Stand straight and you look younger; round your shoulders for instant aging") and success strategies ("You are always auditioning"), and delivers generic pep talks ("Any time you learn from a failure, it's a success"). His pens es gain resonance from deeply felt passages on the grueling rejection and insecurity of an actor's life, the sting of being typecast as an "ignorant cockney bastard," and the immersion in craft and preparation that overcome obstacles. Caine's writing funny, warm, down-to-earth will captivate fans and casual readers alike.
