No comments about Trestle At Pope Lick Creek.

2 comments about The Lord of the Rings: The Official Stage Companion.

1. I recieved the cd and couldn't wait to play it. Love the movies of LORD OF THE RINGS and I think the cd is great too. Then, I couldn't believe that they put out a book.........ordered it as soon as I saw it and I real think I would have liked to have see this on stage. The book is just wonderful to look at and listen to the cd at the same time. And to disappointed... it closes not in June but, July. Hope someday it gets to the U.S.



2. As I had seen this production at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane London and had bought the CD. I thought this would complete my collection and memories. Dissapointed because the majority of the book revolved around the pre London trial engagement in Toronto. There are very few references to London.At least I have my memories of one of the most fantastic, memorable and enjoyable shows I have ever seen. Shame that profits come before art and entertainment I believe it closes in London June 18th 2008. Unfortunately I will not beable to get back to London to see it again.

4 comments about The Round-Up: A Pictorial History of Western Movie and Television Stars Through the Years.

1. A good book to go back and look for your favorite western stars from long ago. It has nice full page photographs if you can't remember a name and are looking to find someone.



2. My husband and I both have enjoyed this book. Excellent pictures. I would like to have seen more information about the actors; I do understand that to have done that would probably have cut down on the pictures. If you are a western fan, this book is a must. The list in the back of additional books looks very complete.



3. Empire Publishing presents "The Round-up: A Pictorial History of Western Movie and Television Stars Through the Years", reporting in one short paragraph the profile on each page with a photograph, synopsis of their films, career, birth dates and date they left us...compiled and edited by Donald R. Key featuring 300 cowboy stars, sidekicks, heroines, villains and character actors.
   
   Tables of Contents with page numbers:
   A Word From the Publisher - 8
   Acknowledgments - 10
   Foreword by Monte Hale - 12
   Art Acord - 14 (first actor on the roster)
   Tony Young - 312 (last actor on the roster)
   Let's Not Forget - 313
   Afterword By Neil Summers - 316
   
   Many of the stars within this publication gave us hours of entertainment...their careers of excellence and dedication to the craft of acting...the audiences who were so faithful for several decades...all the cast members took their job very seriously and the audience would not settle for anything less than the best...and it showed up there on the big screen.
   
   Would like to close this review with a thought from Monte Hale, it goes something like this:
   Life is Like a Journey,
   Taken on a train
   With a pair of travelers at each window pane,
   I may sit beside you the whole journey through,
   Or I may sit elsewhere, never knowing you,
   But if fate should mark us to sit here side by side,
   Let's be pleasant travelers, because it's such a short ride.
   
   Those are some touching words from Monte Hale, thank you Donald R. Key for printing this verse.
   
   Great reading in the days and weeks to come...I guarantee it!...now appearing on Amazon and Empire Publishing ...many tidbits I never knew...if you're a TV and Movie western fan, this one's for you, don't let it pass you by...so saddle up and let's get started on the drive, move 'em out!
   
   Total Page: 320 pages ~ Empire Publishing 0-944019-12-9 ~ (10/01/1995)



4. I bought this gift for my Dad. He is extremely difficult to buy for and hardly ever gets excited, but he LOVED this book! He couldn't put it down!

1 comments about Ballet-Fit Workout: Develop Strength, Control, Flexibility, and Grace with the Revolutionary Bodytorque Program.

1. You will, no doubt, open this book and expect pages full of plies, grand battlement, ronde de jambe, etc. But you're not going to find that. What you will find is many movements based more-or-less on the Alexander Technique. Which is fine. Most of us need to relearn how to use our bodies so we are more efficient and graceful in our movements. That said, this is not a workout that's going to help you develop strength - except for the small section containing ab exercises. It's mainly based on stretching, rotating your joints, and the like. The exercises given will help you develop flexibility and grace, and relearn new habits of posture and movement.
   
   I gave this book 4 stars because of it's misleading title and lack of strength-building exercises. But it's not a bad book. I think this would be a fine beginner's intro to Alex.Tech. for someone who can't find a practitioner. But don't expect this program by itself to produce a body that looks like any of the gorgeous ballet dancers that are photographed in this book. (and the dancers they chose do have beautiful bodies!)

2 comments about The Quotable Will Rogers.

1. "The Unreadable Will Rogers" is a better title for this book. The designers opted to print the quotes in solid caps in a pale orange color typeface that is very, very difficult to read. When the quotes appear over a half-tone illustration, the text is, in fact, unreadable. The picture captions are printed in red in footnote-size type and are also very difficult to read. To enjoy this book you will need 20/20 eyesight, a good magnifying glass, and no color blindness problems. A real pity! It might have been a good book!
   James B. Saunders, Astoria, NY



2. From Stevie Harrison, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia
   
   Please tell Mr. Carter that I got an A in American Literature class with my review of his book on sayings by Will Rogers. Both my parents enjoyed the book, and my teacher wants me to lend it to her.
   
   Do you have his other books for sale? Is Mr. Carter writing another book?
   
   Stevie Harrison and Rafael Calderòn.

No comments about The Comedies of Machiavelli: The Women from Andros; the Mandrake; Clizia.

5 comments about Getting Away With It: Or: The Further Adventures of the Luckiest Bastard You Ever Saw.

1. This book is great for beginning filmmakers and fans of Soderbergh. Interesting tidbits and observations from two captivating filmmakers. It's also hilarious much of the time.



2. Soderbergh (Sex, Lies and Videotape) interviews Lester (Hard Day's Night), interspersing the conversations with his own diary entries about writing (or more often, not writing) various film drafts and the multiple headache-related opportunities afforded by choosing to be part of the film industry. The self-deprecatory journal entries and the punitive footnotes are pretty funny - sort of a cross between Jonathan Ames (What's Not to Love?) and Simon Gray's various theatre diaries.
   
   The interview sections take us through Lester's films one by one - not an immensely detailed, blow by blow account, but the impression of frankness and ease with the fellow film-maker suggests that you get the to essence of Lester's work: insights which might not have emerged from a more conventional, or reverential, Q and A.
   
   Personally, I could have done without the "Where did life come from and what's it all for?" meanderings towards the end - surely The Running, Jumping and Standing Still Film says all that needs to be said on that particular subject? - but overall this is, as the "publisher's" note says at the beginning, "Literature that soothes and invigorates, while accidentally stimulating the body's own defenses" - well, it's as good a description as any.



3. Being a fan of his work/output over the past few years, Soderbergh's book of interview and journal entries appeared to be a must-buy. It proved to be quite interesting and very revealing. The Richard Lester interview pieces may drag in some parts (being unaware of Mr. Lester's own filmography, this may seem destined), yet the two directors do contemplate a variety of subjects outside of filmmaking (the purpose of man, religion, and many other topics). The journal entries are hilarious bits and pieces of the Writer's Deliema/Writer's Block. Soderbergh constantly engages and his bizarre sense of humor peppers the book (all of the footnotes, for instance).

   All in all, fascinating read, and it even turned me on to the films of Lester (bought "The Knack" the day after reading it).

   Bravo, Steve.




4. The majority of this book is a series of interviews between Stephen Soderbergh and Richard Lester that will mainly be of interest to fans of Mr. Lester, filmmakers and aspiring filmmakers. The first two-thirds of the book is basically a film-by-film discussion of Mr. Lester's ouevre, which too often (for my tastes) lapses into shop talk (lighting setups, film stock, etc.) and "I love it when Michael Crawford..."-type observations. I found myself skimming whole sections looking for more interesting and accessible anecdotes and discussions.

   The other major part of the book is Soderbergh's journal c.1996 -- from about the time he finished editing "Schizopolis" and "Gray's Anatomy" through the months of trying to get them released, ending with his agreement to direct "Out of Sight". These sections are livelier and more amusing but get repetitive (negotiations fall through time and again, law suits drag on, procrastination is a never-ending theme) and too cute/clever (the wry footnotes get old after... well, pretty much right away).

   I don't mean to be so down on this book -- I did enjoy it quite a bit -- but my expectations were higher and I know a lot of people who are not as interested in the technical side of filmmaking will find much of this material tedious. I would recommend it (highly) for those with that inclination, and also for fans of Mr. Lester's films (i.e., those who have seen and enjoyed at least "A Hard Day's Night", "The Knack", "Petulia", and one or two others). All others should approach warily.




5. Finally, a window into Steven Soderbergh, the eclectic director of Schizopolis and Kafka. But I guess most people will know him as (in big flashy capital letters) "THE DIRECTOR OF ERIN BROCKOVICH & OUT OF SIGHT" as he's being billed now. I find it funny that Soderbergh is now considered this "Hollywood" director when, upon reading this book (and viewing his entire filmography), you find him almost the antithesis of your typical "Hollywood" personality. He's moody, self involved (in a good way), and a hilarious procrastinator.

   But that's just one half of the book. Intercut with Soderbergh's journal entries (which date from just after he finished 'Schizoplois' and 'Gray's Anatomy' to him helming 'Out of Sight)are a collection of interviews he has with Richard Lester, the groundbreaking director of "A Hard Days Night" and "The Knack" (which I just saw and absolutely loved). I have to confess I had not seen almost any of Richard Lester's work (not including the Superman movies of which I had no idea he was involved) and since all they talk about is Lester's films I found it uninteresting to read about movies I've never seen. I did though, through Soderbergh's praise, go and watch a number of Lester's movies and then went back and read the sections that discussed them.

   But the real magic of this book, at least to me and to all the Soderbergh-ites out there, is Soderbergh. His journal entries are insightful, funny, and really honest. And his style is so casual it feels like reading over letters from an old friend. I absolutely flew through his journal entries and enjoyed ever one of them. The great thing, from a fan's perspective and people interested in the movie business, is the honest, tiresome, struggle he shows of just surviving in Hollywood and the toll it takes on him. And since 'Schizopolis' may be my favorite Soderbergh movie, his journal entries being written at the time of it's release is an extra treat. And if you're a fan of Richard Lester you'll like this book even more.

   So I would absolutely recommend this book: it's funny, it's informational, it's inspiring, and it's refreshingly honest. Look forward to laughing a lot too; his musings on his own procrastination are comic gems.

3 comments about The Madwoman of Chaillot..

1. I find "The Madwoman of Chaillot" contemporary and current. It describes the disillusions, falsness and corruption in a political world gone astray. Anyone who wants to understand the current situation of any government whether a democracy, a republic, a dictatorship, King, Czar, or madmen will identify with this play, and strive to undue the injustices that prevail throughout our modern 21st century world.



2. The Madwoman of Chaillot ( as portrayed by Katharine Hepburn in the movie version) is a two-act play about the destruction of the forces of evil by one older, senile woman - the Madwoman. A group of money-hungry corporation presidents team up with prospectors who claim to have found oil right beneath the streets of Paris's Chaillot suburb, and the Madwoman rallies her bohemian friends and neighbors to stop them from destroying the city. The play is very dramatic and also humorous in parts; it seems primarily a fantasy, but has several fantastic parts for female characters, among them the Madwoman and her group of eccentric, delightful fellow Madwomen. I recommend it highly to any group of adolescent/young adult actors who are looking for a challenge.



3. I believe this is the play in which the role "Countess" appears...and if it is, I would like to write my opinion based upon performing in the role of Countess many years ago. This play is hysterical, entertaining, and a joy for those performing it as well as those seeing or reading it. It involves eccentric, rich old ladies who try to carry on with afternoon tea despite thier various quirky personalities(mainly quirky due to senility and the hallucinations that accompany it). A great play for adolescent through adult actors. It is worth having on your shelf if you instruct drama in any way.

5 comments about How to Sell Your Screenplay: A Realistic Guide to Getting a Television or Film Deal.

1. Writing a screenplay for the movies or for television is only the beginning of the process. Once the script is written it must be pitched (sold) to a studio executive or a production company producer. Expertly co-authored by veteran script writers Lydia and Joan Wilen, "How To Sell Your Screenplay: A Realistic Guide To Getting A Television Or Film Deal" provides an informed and informative introduction to how the script writing business works, what the components of a professional-looking screenplay are, and how to format a script to make the best impression. "How To Sell Your Screenplay" then goes on to explain the role and importance of agent and managers, producers, lawyers, directors, and actors. Enhanced with the example of an effective query letter, "How To Sell Your Screenplay" also features the 'Square One System' for submitting scripts with a minimum of time, cost and effort, while achieving a maximum of success. Of special value is the up-to-date listing of resources, the advice for improving pitching skills, and avoiding common mistakes in pitching a script. Simply stated, "How To Sell Your Screenplay" should be considered 'must reading' for all aspiring script writers seeking to establish themselves professionally.



2. There are endless how-to volumes that skirt the necessary information needed to break down the vaulted door to Hollywood. Between the covers of such books are topics ranging from the author's personal brilliance to trivial and irrelevant sidebars. If you like that sort of thing, good news! There's plenty to choose from.
   
   However, Lydia and Joan Wilen have written the authoritative book for beginning scripters. The Wilens have actually had their material produced. That in itself is a feat most screenwriting "experts" can't boast of. So, when they have a suggestion, I pay attention. And what they have to say has led me to a legitimate producer who has requested my script. In fact, favorable suggestions were offered, which I've incorporated into a revised draft that's being read even as this is being written.
   
   The point is, none of this would have occured had I not purchased How to Sell Your Screenplay. My dog-eared copy has helped open a door for me not previously accessible. Buy this book, read it, then read it again before embarking on a journey as treacherous as writing a script - selling it!



3. I haven't tried to get my script published yet, so I can't honestly say if this book "works" or not. Also, it's the first book on script writing/selling that I've read. So that said, while I don't have any comparisons to other books that I can make, I can say that this books was a good introduction to a world I was pretty unfamiliar with.
   
   I liked the easy to follow format and structure of the book, as well as the authors' realistic but optimistic approach. I was pleased that the authors' presented varying points of view regarding various topics (i.e. sending scripts vs. query letters). Also, the resource list in the back, and glossary at the beginning, are wonderful for someone (like myself) who doesn't know where to start.
   
   An interesting and fun read, and a seemingly practical approach. I felt like I learned something!



4. It is a ggod book, but in the entertainment word it is not what you know, but who you know.



5. Despite the authors' distance from Hollywood and lack of produced experience as screenwriters, they've done a fabulous job--partly because of the excellent rubrics of the SquareOne Writers Guide series--of putting together a solid overview of what's involved in making a screenplay sale. The book contains invaluable sidebars--from sample collaboration agreement to sample query letters--that alone makes it worth the cover price. The systematic approach to marketing, glossary of industry terms, along with advice on containing your ego and controlling your emotions-all add up to making this a must in the Hollywood storyteller's library.

5 comments about Success in the Arts: What It Takes to Make It in Creative Fields.

1. This is a witty, easy-to-read book, with practical advice for those trying to break into the arts. It's well worth the investment.



2. I ordered this book, through an art email that offered bonuses if i bought the book - turns out, i got to listen to the authour on the radio talk on some website and repeating everything i had already heard in the book! I also got to download an ebook with a few helpful bits of advice on GRAPHIC DESIGN, which of course is what the author teaches. tough luck if you are a budding actress or a singer - how is that going to help you in your auditions!!
   
   although i get the impression that the author is probably a really nice guy, i have to say i dont buy books just to LIKE SOMEBODY, i buy them to feed me KNOWLEDGE and to further myself in my profession! which this book does NOT deliver.
   
   The book was basically written using other famous people's QUOTES that the author obviously has found over the years. as facinating as it is to re-read lots of OTHER PEOPLES quotes on how to be motivated and stay positive, i found that the author uses quotes from others, in nearly every paragraph! Im sure you will agree that a quote from Thomas Edison is always nice and learning 'HOW TO CATCH A MONKEY' is a very enlightening story BUT!!! - THAT IS NOT GOING TO GET YOUR ART SOLD , OR GET YOUR NAME IN SHINEY LIGHTS ON BROADWAY, is it?? this books title is SUCCESS IN THE ARTS - Written by someone i have never heard of ! (however i guess if you are a GRAPHIC DESIGNER and have spent years in the advertising industry, you COULD fool alot of people to buy your book, by giving it a GREAT TITLE and a nice ATTRACTIVE cover, SO theoritically you could eventually be SUCCESSFUL IN THE ARTS - dont you think??? )
   
   if you are the type of person who has drive, ambition, heart and soul (oh and dont forget that little thing called TALENT btw) in your craft you will be successful, without even reading this book - and if you are the type of person who DID NOT KNOW THAT, - then maybe you might not make it anyway, regardless of buying this book!
   
   This book would have been far better value for money if it actually listed a network of people to contact in the arts - (as he indeed tells you to have one, yet does not offer any kind of direction or contact list to help you begin your 'success in the arts'!!!)
   
   Although im sure the author of this book is a 'very nice man and teacher' and now 'author' - i would like to offer some practical advice back - less of the philisophical and more of the PRACTICAL, maybe the way to go with the NEXT book!
   
   i have never felt more MOTIVATED to write a review on my book until today! sorry its not a good one ! (oh and the 2 stars are because i think the author sounds like a very nice guy! otherwise i would give it 1 star)



3. What a great mentor Michael Shumate would be for anyone planning a career in the arts! It is quite clear that he has good advice developed over a long and successful career. I especially liked the part about "the Grand Poo-Bah": a bit whimsical, but it gets the point across with humor. If he can't be your mentor in person, then his book is next best. He is always clear, down-to-earth, and honest. You can read the book in an afternoon. It's a great investment for anyone in the target audience.



4. This short and very readable book is drawn from the author's experiences teaching art in college. Although mildly motivational, it lacks the pretense of many motivational books. It concentrates mainly on the ideas and attitudes will help an aspiring artist actually to become an artist and includes a few excellent quotes. Shumate addresses all practitioners of the arts, including visual artists, actors, writers, and musicians. There is a lot of good common sense in this book, which is necessary these days because common sense is in such short supply. Shumate urges people to work hard at their art, and to practice virtue and eschew the tendency to feel sorry for oneself, or to focus too heavily on oneself. In this day and age, this is sound advice because in many places, schools train prima donnas, not achievers. The one thing I missed, and a major reason I bought the book, was information on how to locate people who are in a position to advance the artist's career, and how to find resources likely to lead to such people. Obviously, Shumate has been successful in accomplishing this, and I hoped he would share his secrets. Though I had pretty much learned many of the things he discusses by the time I read the book, I did get some valuable ideas from it just the same. One should never be too proud to learn from experienced people. But the question for which I sought an answer was, where does the artist go from here? I sincerely hope that Shumate will write a "sequel" that includes this information.



5. Michael Shumate gives extremely insightful and relevant advice in a sometimes confusing career path. Unfortunately, being successful in the arts isn't as straightforward as some other professions (go to the right school, maintain a good GPA, get a solid internship). He suggests that if you have two of these three traits, you MIGHT make it:
   -talent
   -smarts
   -passion
   I've personally seen the road to a successful career in the arts littered with people lacking a few of these traits (yes, even very talented people). Definitely worth a read if you or someone you know is considering a career in the arts.