Alastair Sim: The Star of Scrooge and The Belles of St Trinian's

by Mark Simpson

This biography contains original contributions from more than 30 actors and actresses including, Sir Ian McKellen, Ronnie Corbett, Ian Carmichael, Derek Fowlds, John Standing, George Cole, Stephen Fry, and John Fisher. It is supported by extensive research including an interview with the playwright Christopher Fry, information from people who worked on the film sets with Alastair, material from museum archives, and original reviews from theatre magazines, newspapers, and various other publications. It examines Alastair's roles in the Quota Quickie films of the 1930s and 1940s before he became established as the most idiosyncratic star in such famous British comedies as The Happiest Days of Your Life and The Belles of St Trinians . It goes on to explain why his popularity suddenly waned as the cinemagoers taste for the risqué evolved during the latter part of the 1950s. This book also explores Alastair's life outside of films including his marriage to Naomi Sim—whom he first met when she was 12—his extensive work on stage, including his theatrical endeavors with James Bridie, and his stalwart refusal to sign autographs. It is the only book in the market dedicated to Alastair Sim, and includes a bibliography and film section.

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Film

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoroughly absorbing profile

Like many people I suspect, my personal memories of Alastair Sim are cinematic ones. Many of these are recalled here but thankfully the book is more than a mere list of acting credits. It offers some insight into the man behind the characters, gives proper perspective to his film work in relation to his wider career with insights into his early life. In short, it does everything a biography should, and if you loved the man I feel sure you would love the book.

[Keith CARTER · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sim was simply one of the best actors this country has produced. This book is extremely well researches and does Sim justice. It is obvious Sim was not an easy man to deal with especially
if you were a producer or director, but his fellow actors have nothing but good things to say about him. To look at the body of work of Mr Sim is to see the history of great British cinema along with his extensive stage work. Well written and well worth a read.

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This biography tells the story of Alastair Sims life and career in a stilted and pontifical style. It also repeats itself more than once, which was annoying. A worthwhile read for Sim fans only.