Bean There Done That: The Life and Times of Rowan Atkinson

by Bruce Dessau

"While British comedic actor Rowan Atkinson has sparked comparisons to fellow countryman Benny Hill (they both do silent comedy, as Atkinson proved in the internationally successful "Mr. Bean" movies), U.K. comedy journalist Bruce Dessau considers Atkinson a far more sophisticated performer. In "Rowan Atkinson," Dessau provides a thorough account of the multitalented performer's rich career, from his early days at Oxford through the historical English sit-com "Blackadder" and his roles as the tongue-tied vicar in "Four Weddings and a Funeral." Although the intensely private Atkinson did not consent to be interviewed, the author has diligently mined the record, noting his subject's one-time confession that 'being funny is agony.'" (PUBLISHERS WEEKLY)

Genres: Biography, History

112 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1931

Reviews

[Rahul Matthew]

I really enjoyed him in the Blackadder.

[GLF (Seeing better than ever!) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure if I hadn't read this book before, but I'm sure I had at least read snippets.

It's easy to read, but I found it tended to be quite repetitive and offered very few insights into Rowan Atkinson, the person. Having seen Atkinson in "Black Adder", "Mr Bean", "The Thin Blue Line" and various movies, some chapters offered little more than a synopsis of various episodes of these series or films.

I'm sure with more research the author could offered more to our understanding of Rowan Atkinson. Alternatively, some more astute editing could have reduced the length of the book by many pages.

Interesting, but not insightful.

[Amanda Witt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting read, starting with his beginnings in acting and drama through to comedy and creations like Mr Bean.

[Patty · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was initially put off by this unauthorized biography. Many of the early chapters are hearsay from people who never seem quite sure they are remembering Rowan Atkinson or one of his two brothers. Much of the remainder is simply quotes from other sources. Still, I enjoyed reliving some of his classic career moments (Blackadder!).

[Rahel · Rating 1 out of 5]

COuldnt get through more than 2 chapters. Really hard to read. Wordy and not very intersting in style. Shame cause I was really interested in finding out more about one of my favourit actors. Will have to find another version