What do you think?
Rate this book
Juste une dernière chose les mémoires de Columbo
In Just One More Thing Peter Falk — award-winning actor — takes us behind-the-scenes into his professional and private life. Starting in Hartford, where he worked as a management analyst for the Connecticut State Budget Bureau., Falk was no more successful than at an earlier attempt to work with the CIA. He then turned to an old college interest: acting. Falk came to prominence in 1956 in the successful Off-Broadway revival of The Iceman Cometh. Although he worked continuously for the next three years, a theatrical agent advised him not to expect much work in motion pictures because of his glass eye. Surgeons had removed his right eye, along with a malignant tumor, when he was three years old.
But in 1958, Falk landed his first movie, Murder Incorporated, and was nominated for an Oscar. A Pocketful of Miracles garnered his second Oscar nomination, but it was through his collaboration with filmmaker John Cassavetes that Falk entered into his most creative period in 1970 when movies such as A Woman Under the Influence helped launch the independent film movement.
Through television, however, Falk reached his widest audience — portraying the inimitable Lieutenant Columbo throughout the 1970s and winning four Emmys.
But in 1958, Falk landed his first movie, Murder Incorporated, and was nominated for an Oscar. A Pocketful of Miracles garnered his second Oscar nomination, but it was through his collaboration with filmmaker John Cassavetes that Falk entered into his most creative period in 1970 when movies such as A Woman Under the Influence helped launch the independent film movement.
Through television, however, Falk reached his widest audience — portraying the inimitable Lieutenant Columbo throughout the 1970s and winning four Emmys.
270 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2006
39 people are currently reading
897 people want to read
About the author
Peter Falk
11 books15 followersPeter Michael Falk was a two-time Academy Award-nominated, five-time Emmy Award-winning and one-time Golden Globe award-winning American actor, best known for his role as Lt. Columbo in the television series Columbo.
Falk died at his Beverly Hills home on June 23, 2011. The actor had been suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's disease, according to his adopted daughter, Catherine Falk.
Falk died at his Beverly Hills home on June 23, 2011. The actor had been suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's disease, according to his adopted daughter, Catherine Falk.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
December 4, 2024
"When I was growing up, a biography was the life of Abe Lincoln. Today, every fifth person is a legend or icon. I go into Nate & Al's delicatessen in Beverly Hills and in the next booth there are three icons sitting there eating pastrami sandwiches. So this is not an autobiography!" -- from the foreword
Actor Peter Falk (1927-2011) will long be remembered for his memorable role as the disheveled and often-underestimated homicide detective Lt. Columbo - a decidedly Americanized working-class version of a solo Sherlock Holmes - in a series of TV-movies that played over five (!) decades on the U.S. television airwaves. (Possibly the only other performer / character combo that rivals said TV longevity is James Arness as Marshal Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke) Falk won four Emmys and a Golden Globe during the 1970's and became a household name across the planet, but his acting career began in the theater and in film - where he notably received two back-to-back Oscar nominations for supporting roles - during the 50's and 60's. Falk recounts life story with the nimble and humorous Just One More Thing (its title courtesy of Columbo's memorable catchphrase of sorts towards murder suspects), which sidesteps being a boring or by-the-numbers memoir precisely because it's easy to imagine the bemused actor narrating it in his signature gravelly tone. While a good deal of the text nicely focuses on Columbo - as Falk had a certain amount of input and control over the character and unique crime series, which one critic astutely noted was not a 'whodunnit?' but a 'howcatch'em?' - he also discusses his various movie roles and on-set experiences in the 1960's, his professional and personal relationship with actor and influential film director John Cassavetes, and playing the part of the grandfather / narrator in the endearing cinematic adaptation of The Princess Bride. Falk doesn't take himself too seriously, and I thought the pacing of his anecdote-heavy book was excellent.
Actor Peter Falk (1927-2011) will long be remembered for his memorable role as the disheveled and often-underestimated homicide detective Lt. Columbo - a decidedly Americanized working-class version of a solo Sherlock Holmes - in a series of TV-movies that played over five (!) decades on the U.S. television airwaves. (Possibly the only other performer / character combo that rivals said TV longevity is James Arness as Marshal Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke) Falk won four Emmys and a Golden Globe during the 1970's and became a household name across the planet, but his acting career began in the theater and in film - where he notably received two back-to-back Oscar nominations for supporting roles - during the 50's and 60's. Falk recounts life story with the nimble and humorous Just One More Thing (its title courtesy of Columbo's memorable catchphrase of sorts towards murder suspects), which sidesteps being a boring or by-the-numbers memoir precisely because it's easy to imagine the bemused actor narrating it in his signature gravelly tone. While a good deal of the text nicely focuses on Columbo - as Falk had a certain amount of input and control over the character and unique crime series, which one critic astutely noted was not a 'whodunnit?' but a 'howcatch'em?' - he also discusses his various movie roles and on-set experiences in the 1960's, his professional and personal relationship with actor and influential film director John Cassavetes, and playing the part of the grandfather / narrator in the endearing cinematic adaptation of The Princess Bride. Falk doesn't take himself too seriously, and I thought the pacing of his anecdote-heavy book was excellent.
July 26, 2013
The book reads like Columbo wrote it. It has anecdotes with unexpected punchlines. The understatement is deceptively intelligent. There are signature illustrations that show talent in the visual arts. Falk has traveled widely and has had many unique adventures.
As an actor Falk liked to develop his character along with writers and directors. He tells how he re-wrote lines and found ad libs that worked better than the writers'. He's rejected jobs because the character wasn't real, and he got enthusiastic about scripts with a well constructed character. He named the talented actors and directors he's enjoyed working with and writes some interesting vignettes about Brando (never heard this before!), Dunaway, DiLaurentis and others. Columbo, as we iconize him, is Falk's creation from the crumpled coat to the battered Peugeot.
The reader will enjoy this time with Falk, but won't learn much about him personally. His childhood is represented by a few high school tales. He talks fondly of two wives, the first one just vanishes from the text. You learn he has 2 daughters through a photo.
But we learn that Falk is an adventurer, with a positive attitude who makes long term friends. The book does not purport to be an autobiography, merely a set of stories, and in this, it meets its goal.
As an actor Falk liked to develop his character along with writers and directors. He tells how he re-wrote lines and found ad libs that worked better than the writers'. He's rejected jobs because the character wasn't real, and he got enthusiastic about scripts with a well constructed character. He named the talented actors and directors he's enjoyed working with and writes some interesting vignettes about Brando (never heard this before!), Dunaway, DiLaurentis and others. Columbo, as we iconize him, is Falk's creation from the crumpled coat to the battered Peugeot.
The reader will enjoy this time with Falk, but won't learn much about him personally. His childhood is represented by a few high school tales. He talks fondly of two wives, the first one just vanishes from the text. You learn he has 2 daughters through a photo.
But we learn that Falk is an adventurer, with a positive attitude who makes long term friends. The book does not purport to be an autobiography, merely a set of stories, and in this, it meets its goal.
August 26, 2012
I was so looking forward to reading this when I found out Peter Falk had written a memoir. I loved his acting in movies and most especially his role of Lieutenant Columbo. Reading the book I realized that he was a good actor and a not-so-good writer. The book is more like a bunch of 3x5 index cards of ideas for chapters or themes. The book doesn't feel cohesive nor does it flow in anything other than rambling about one's life late at night over a few drinks.
There are fun snippets here and there and I learned a few things about Mr. Falk and about Columbo. However, some of the stuff I learned about Falk wasn't what I expected. He's kind of egotistical and self-centered. Maybe that's expected from someone who writes a memoir, but I kind of got turned off by his self-promotion after awhile.
If you like Peter Falk (or just Columbo), I recommend watching his performances to enjoy him rather than reading this book. But that's just my opinion.
There are fun snippets here and there and I learned a few things about Mr. Falk and about Columbo. However, some of the stuff I learned about Falk wasn't what I expected. He's kind of egotistical and self-centered. Maybe that's expected from someone who writes a memoir, but I kind of got turned off by his self-promotion after awhile.
If you like Peter Falk (or just Columbo), I recommend watching his performances to enjoy him rather than reading this book. But that's just my opinion.
November 14, 2021
In an anecdotal manner Peter Falk relates tales of his early life and his subsequent life in the movies with a variety of humorous stories that show that he is a natural born story teller ... as well as being one of televisions most iconic and entertaining detectives.
He begins by giving the story of the loss of his eye as a youngster but from then on he makes light of it, and even jokes about it. He goes on to say that he enjoyed drawing and painting, something he continued for much of his life, and adds that it took him 12 years to decide to become an actor. His father was sceptical at first but once he had made the decision he never looked back and his father even got to like him being in the profession when the larger pay checks began to roll in!
He speaks well of most people in the industry who he has come into contact with and has many amusing stories to tell of them. He particularly liked working with John Cassavetes both as director and actor and one of his favourite playwrights (and mine, too) was Neil Simon, who could always invoke a laugh whatever he did - vide 'The Odd Couple'! He was amused at Marlon Brando wearing an ear piece for all his films and he gives away the secret as to why that was - most interesting and how it worked is quite intriguing.
He enjoyed a happy relationship with his wife, who often worked with him and he gives plenty of detail about his role in Columbo and how he came to be the dishevelled cop that he was. It was all entirely his choice for initially the director and wardrobe staff were keen to kit him out in suit etc but he did not go for that image and made the Columbo persona up himself. He admits that he always wanted to be a director so when he got the chance to direct Columbo episodes he grabbed it with both hands.
He speaks of many of the movies in which he has featured and tells amusing stories of them all, which makes the book a delight to read ... and, just one more thing ... oh!, never mind, it was great!
He begins by giving the story of the loss of his eye as a youngster but from then on he makes light of it, and even jokes about it. He goes on to say that he enjoyed drawing and painting, something he continued for much of his life, and adds that it took him 12 years to decide to become an actor. His father was sceptical at first but once he had made the decision he never looked back and his father even got to like him being in the profession when the larger pay checks began to roll in!
He speaks well of most people in the industry who he has come into contact with and has many amusing stories to tell of them. He particularly liked working with John Cassavetes both as director and actor and one of his favourite playwrights (and mine, too) was Neil Simon, who could always invoke a laugh whatever he did - vide 'The Odd Couple'! He was amused at Marlon Brando wearing an ear piece for all his films and he gives away the secret as to why that was - most interesting and how it worked is quite intriguing.
He enjoyed a happy relationship with his wife, who often worked with him and he gives plenty of detail about his role in Columbo and how he came to be the dishevelled cop that he was. It was all entirely his choice for initially the director and wardrobe staff were keen to kit him out in suit etc but he did not go for that image and made the Columbo persona up himself. He admits that he always wanted to be a director so when he got the chance to direct Columbo episodes he grabbed it with both hands.
He speaks of many of the movies in which he has featured and tells amusing stories of them all, which makes the book a delight to read ... and, just one more thing ... oh!, never mind, it was great!
April 20, 2018
I think it's pretty funny that some people who are reviewing this book are saying, "I expected to hear more about Falk's life, but he barely talked about his childhood and his family at all, it makes him sound like a pompous ass who hated his kids!" Come on. Because the book is subtitled "Stories From My Life". In the introduction he specifically states that it's NOT an autobiography or a memoir or anything and that it is just in fact a collection of short stories from his life. "Well this wasn't an autobiography but I put it on my autobiography shelf anyway and let me tell you, it was a bad autobiography!" Are you stupid? Personally, I put this book on my 'space opera' shelf and it was dismal - there was NO explanation for FTL travel, no space battles, no aliens, nothing! Terrible space opera book. Better give it one star!
Idiots.
Anyway, I thought this book was great. I was worried at first that he'd spend the whole book on Columbo and not go into any other stories, but it was just the opposite. I never knew what an interesting life Mr. Falk led. I loved learning his insights on acting, on traveling, on art... there was a ton here. His stories were almost always entertaining and each was worth the read. This was a really fun book!
Idiots.
Anyway, I thought this book was great. I was worried at first that he'd spend the whole book on Columbo and not go into any other stories, but it was just the opposite. I never knew what an interesting life Mr. Falk led. I loved learning his insights on acting, on traveling, on art... there was a ton here. His stories were almost always entertaining and each was worth the read. This was a really fun book!
June 4, 2013
I'm sure Peter Falk was a very charming guy but this is a mess of a book--completely unorganized (which he admits at the beginning), just a mixture of out-of-sequence, random short stories with endings that make little sense. Falk seems to think he's telling hilarious inside tidbits with great punchlines, but he's not. They're mostly boring, poorly told, and many of the endings are so unintelligible I had to re-read them to try to figure out what they meant!
He spends a bit more time on Columbo, John Cassavetes, and The In-Laws, but most of his professional work is mentioned in a paragraph or two. He must have children because there is a picture of them in the book but he doesn't talk about them either. He does have a a wife, who he barely alludes to but says how dumb she is. He also fails to address his notoriety for being very difficult to work with.
The only interesting things in the book are that he thinks he's above small parts (he gave up one in The Godfather because it was too small!) and that he asks how much they'll pay him for a part before even looking at a script. He does, however, talk about how he insisted on rewriting some scripts and he takes credit for almost anything successful associated with his works (like the trench coat in Columbo).
In all a very unsatisfying experience. The page count is 280 but with pictures and all sorts of extra spacing it's only about half that in actual material. In the end I don't feel like I know him much better than at the start--and the parts that I now do know I didn't really care for.
He spends a bit more time on Columbo, John Cassavetes, and The In-Laws, but most of his professional work is mentioned in a paragraph or two. He must have children because there is a picture of them in the book but he doesn't talk about them either. He does have a a wife, who he barely alludes to but says how dumb she is. He also fails to address his notoriety for being very difficult to work with.
The only interesting things in the book are that he thinks he's above small parts (he gave up one in The Godfather because it was too small!) and that he asks how much they'll pay him for a part before even looking at a script. He does, however, talk about how he insisted on rewriting some scripts and he takes credit for almost anything successful associated with his works (like the trench coat in Columbo).
In all a very unsatisfying experience. The page count is 280 but with pictures and all sorts of extra spacing it's only about half that in actual material. In the end I don't feel like I know him much better than at the start--and the parts that I now do know I didn't really care for.
May 28, 2015
This is an atypical read for me: I usually read books much "heavier" than this. So, both for that reason, and also because I love Peter Falk as Columbo, I was eagerly anticipating reading Falk's story of his life and career. But, how disappointing! The book is really just a loose collection of short stories from various points in his life. It does not really resemble an autobiography, or even a memoir, although I have classified it as such for my reading shelf on this site.
Falk essentially gives us snippets of his career as an actor. Some of the stories are interesting, others... I think they are ones where, if you had been present for the actual events then the stories would be funny, but reading about something years or decades later feels like you are on the outside of an inside joke. I thought he would talk more about overcoming the prejudice against him for wearing a glass eye (the result of a cancer operation on his right eye when he was five years-old, this resulted in the removal of his eyeball). He mentions it a few times early on, but then drops it. I wanted to know how he felt about going through life with the glass eye, and if it caused him any issues personally.
Only approximately forty of the two hundred eighty-one pages is devoted to his time as Columbo. This is immensely disappointing. I was hoping he would discuss the character development and his thoughts on some of the great stars that he worked with over the years, but he really just scratches the surface. In this aspect, I doubt I am the only person disappointed in the book. He also does not even mention the resurrection of the series on ABC from 1988-2003. How could he not have some emotion on returning to play the character that made him so famous?
He also does not talk about his family, other than his second wife, Shera. His first wife is barely mentioned, and even then not in the context of being his wife (or ex-wife). His daughters likewise are not written about. This leaves one with the distinct impression that Falk had really poor relationships with these people. His parents also get short thrift.
Finally, what does come through - and what was very surprising to me - was Falk's enormous ego. I really did not picture him as being a pampered, difficult, vain person. Yet, that is how he came across time after time in this book. His ego was sufficient enough to turn down a small role in The Godfather. He already had a solid career going at that point, but why pass up a chance to be part of what he admitted was going to be a great movie?
I came away with a really negative impression of the man. It won't dampen my enthusiasm of watching Columbo, but it is quite disappointing.
Grade: D-
Falk essentially gives us snippets of his career as an actor. Some of the stories are interesting, others... I think they are ones where, if you had been present for the actual events then the stories would be funny, but reading about something years or decades later feels like you are on the outside of an inside joke. I thought he would talk more about overcoming the prejudice against him for wearing a glass eye (the result of a cancer operation on his right eye when he was five years-old, this resulted in the removal of his eyeball). He mentions it a few times early on, but then drops it. I wanted to know how he felt about going through life with the glass eye, and if it caused him any issues personally.
Only approximately forty of the two hundred eighty-one pages is devoted to his time as Columbo. This is immensely disappointing. I was hoping he would discuss the character development and his thoughts on some of the great stars that he worked with over the years, but he really just scratches the surface. In this aspect, I doubt I am the only person disappointed in the book. He also does not even mention the resurrection of the series on ABC from 1988-2003. How could he not have some emotion on returning to play the character that made him so famous?
He also does not talk about his family, other than his second wife, Shera. His first wife is barely mentioned, and even then not in the context of being his wife (or ex-wife). His daughters likewise are not written about. This leaves one with the distinct impression that Falk had really poor relationships with these people. His parents also get short thrift.
Finally, what does come through - and what was very surprising to me - was Falk's enormous ego. I really did not picture him as being a pampered, difficult, vain person. Yet, that is how he came across time after time in this book. His ego was sufficient enough to turn down a small role in The Godfather. He already had a solid career going at that point, but why pass up a chance to be part of what he admitted was going to be a great movie?
I came away with a really negative impression of the man. It won't dampen my enthusiasm of watching Columbo, but it is quite disappointing.
Grade: D-
January 31, 2021
This is a book of stories from Peter Falk's life and his first book. It also explains how he began his acting career and also touches on the beginnings of Columbo as a character.
I really enjoyed spending time with the creator of Inspector Columbo. The stories were mostly pretty short and generally quite amusing. It was a good book to snatch a quick read here and there. I could almost hear him chatting away! It's inspired me to watch some of his other films... And I can see a Columbo marathon happening in my near future.
The book isn't just about Columbo and I feel I got a little insight into Peter as an actor and as a person. A pleasure to read and recommended for any fans of Peter Falk
I really enjoyed spending time with the creator of Inspector Columbo. The stories were mostly pretty short and generally quite amusing. It was a good book to snatch a quick read here and there. I could almost hear him chatting away! It's inspired me to watch some of his other films... And I can see a Columbo marathon happening in my near future.
The book isn't just about Columbo and I feel I got a little insight into Peter as an actor and as a person. A pleasure to read and recommended for any fans of Peter Falk
August 3, 2011
The best book I have ever read; Hilariously funny, insightful and intelligent, reading this is like having a private chat with the man himself. I suppose, you have to know Peter Falk (or more likely Columbo) to care which limits the appeal of this; however, I’ve never found a book more enjoyable and just for its charming tone everyone should try it.
Best categorised as the ramblings of a man who only has half his mind on the world in front of him, Falk presents himself through loosely linked uproariously entertaining vignettes of his life. An autobiography with the boring bits left out would sum this up nicely. How could you not love a book with chapter titles such as “Thinking about Faye Dunaway whilst driving” or “I have never been arrested in the United States but I have been arrested in...”?
Falk was a genius; I only wish I could read this again for the first time.
Best categorised as the ramblings of a man who only has half his mind on the world in front of him, Falk presents himself through loosely linked uproariously entertaining vignettes of his life. An autobiography with the boring bits left out would sum this up nicely. How could you not love a book with chapter titles such as “Thinking about Faye Dunaway whilst driving” or “I have never been arrested in the United States but I have been arrested in...”?
Falk was a genius; I only wish I could read this again for the first time.
April 18, 2021
This is a memoir in vignettes and it's delightful. This is not a "proper" autobiography. If you're wanting a dense retrospective of Falk's career and traumatizing events from his childhood, keep looking. If you're wanting to be entertained with a light read by snd about one of the most beloved actors in the world, this is your book.
I only wish he'd read an audiobook version. You'll hear the book in his voice, but it would be nice to actually hear it.
Cons: More typos than I'm used to seeing. No mention of his daughters--apparently he had two. Maybe those didn't make the final edit. Would love to see an expanded version of this.
I only wish he'd read an audiobook version. You'll hear the book in his voice, but it would be nice to actually hear it.
Cons: More typos than I'm used to seeing. No mention of his daughters--apparently he had two. Maybe those didn't make the final edit. Would love to see an expanded version of this.
December 16, 2024
Interesting and funny. I love Columbo series, so I love this book, too.
April 9, 2022
I've recently gotten into watching Peter Falk as Columbo. Peter was meant to play Columbo, you can always see so much joy in his face, when he was performing Columbo. I've also been binge watching, some of Peter's movies. He was amazing in his John Cassavetes movies and was great friends with Cassavetes and Ben Gazzara. I enjoy reading Peter's stories he wanted to share with his readers, you can tell he had some amazing times in his life. His stories are short and to the point, he doesn't do a lot of descriptions with them. With some of his stories, I wish he had shared more, like when he talked about his movies. I would have loved to read more, of his stories about spending time with John Cassavetes and Ben Gazzara, when they made Husbands together. But what he did share was great, and I'm so glad, he wanted to write a book.
December 9, 2018
Being a very big fan of 'Columbo' it isn't realistically possible for me to do an unbiased review. This is not a memoir or autobiography as much as a series of reminiscences of movies made. This is my third reading having purchased the book several years ago. I have no doubt there will be a fourth, fifth etc.
July 4, 2017
"The funny stuff. Reliving it. Putting it on paper." ---Peter Falk
Peter Falk, best known for his portrayal of Lieutenant Columbo on the long-running TV series, has written a biography that made me feel like I was sitting with him in a restaurant, just listening to story after entertaining story. Falk was one of those fortunate people whose take-home from almost any situation is a funny story, and his autobiography is a fine collection of humor and behind the scenes revelations about how things happen in Hollywood. How many people could lose an eye to cancer while still a child and emerge with nothing but hilarious recollections about what it's like to have a glass eye?
Falk was a late bloomer in many respects, getting into acting after years of trying other professions; discovering a love of sketching even later in life. Had he simply become a star performer right out of college, his autobiography would still have been interesting, but we wouldn't have all those great stories about his years in the merchant marine or trying unsuccessfully to land a government job during the McCarthy era.
He invested himself heavily in every role, choosing his own wardrobe for many of them (including the iconic raincoat), suggesting and even writing scenes, always coming up with a memorable character.
And his many acquaintances come to vivid life, usually through a telling anecdote: his wife Shera, Frank Capra, Marlon Brando, John Cassavetes, Jonathan Winers, Alan Arkin. If anyone is the butt of a joke or looks a little ridiculous in any of these reminiscences, Falk makes sure it is himself. In an era of tell all, get even, and get rich first person narratives, this book was as refreshing as it was entertaining.
Peter Falk, best known for his portrayal of Lieutenant Columbo on the long-running TV series, has written a biography that made me feel like I was sitting with him in a restaurant, just listening to story after entertaining story. Falk was one of those fortunate people whose take-home from almost any situation is a funny story, and his autobiography is a fine collection of humor and behind the scenes revelations about how things happen in Hollywood. How many people could lose an eye to cancer while still a child and emerge with nothing but hilarious recollections about what it's like to have a glass eye?
Falk was a late bloomer in many respects, getting into acting after years of trying other professions; discovering a love of sketching even later in life. Had he simply become a star performer right out of college, his autobiography would still have been interesting, but we wouldn't have all those great stories about his years in the merchant marine or trying unsuccessfully to land a government job during the McCarthy era.
He invested himself heavily in every role, choosing his own wardrobe for many of them (including the iconic raincoat), suggesting and even writing scenes, always coming up with a memorable character.
And his many acquaintances come to vivid life, usually through a telling anecdote: his wife Shera, Frank Capra, Marlon Brando, John Cassavetes, Jonathan Winers, Alan Arkin. If anyone is the butt of a joke or looks a little ridiculous in any of these reminiscences, Falk makes sure it is himself. In an era of tell all, get even, and get rich first person narratives, this book was as refreshing as it was entertaining.
March 18, 2021
Like many before me, I was excited to find this book written by Peter Faulk. He was a multitalented man but being able to write a book wasn’t one them and he admits that in the very beginning (I added a star for that because he did warn me). The book is comprised of short stories about different events in Peter’s life that had significance for him. There are times that it gave it me a chuckle but more times than not it left me scratching my head. A small section of it deals with Columbo so if you want to more on that subject please look elsewhere.
February 20, 2018
"NOTE TO THE READER: By now you should know what I like: short stories that can be read in ten minutes..... that are designed for people like me, who pick up a book when they get into bed, read for 12 minutes, and doze off, hopefully with a smile on their lips."
So says Falk on page 15.
Well, this book is exactly that. Perfect for dipping into, with really short chapters. Perfect bedtime reading for someone like me.
It is not - as he is careful to tell us - an autobiography. It is a series of anecdotes. But what it is, is a very interesting read. I never realised he had done quite so many movies.
I loved him in Columbo, and in Princess Bride, but I don't think I've seen him in anything else.
I get the impression he wasn't the easiest to work with. He freely admits he was awkward about his salary and the size of his roles. Yet his talent meant his was in demand.
I feel like I want to check out some of his movies now.
So says Falk on page 15.
Well, this book is exactly that. Perfect for dipping into, with really short chapters. Perfect bedtime reading for someone like me.
It is not - as he is careful to tell us - an autobiography. It is a series of anecdotes. But what it is, is a very interesting read. I never realised he had done quite so many movies.
I loved him in Columbo, and in Princess Bride, but I don't think I've seen him in anything else.
I get the impression he wasn't the easiest to work with. He freely admits he was awkward about his salary and the size of his roles. Yet his talent meant his was in demand.
I feel like I want to check out some of his movies now.
June 1, 2020
I have been on a roll lately watching every season of Columbo/Peter Falk. Huge fan even as a kid. So, no surprise I bought and read this book. I enjoyed this book written from his point. I could even hear him talking out loud with some of the words and phrases. He talked about some of the Columbo episodes I've recently watched and his second wife who was in 6 of the shows. Highly recommend if your a fan.
August 17, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed reading about Peter's acting career. I like the fact that the chapters are quite short and snappy, therefore making the book pretty easy to read. There's also plenty of pictures in here of himself and people he has worked with over the years.
The only thing I was slightly disappointed in is the fact that he didn't really talk much about Columbo, which is what he is most well-known for. Still, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it.
The only thing I was slightly disappointed in is the fact that he didn't really talk much about Columbo, which is what he is most well-known for. Still, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it.
May 9, 2022
Reading this book it's incredibly easy to hear Peter Falk's voice in your head as you do so, both in his pacing and word choice, which make this a quick yet entertainingly insightful read. Self deprecating by way of humble honesty whilst also knowing just what he's good at and not afraid to speak his mind, it reads like catching up with an older relative you haven't seen in a long time but once you get to talking it's like there was never any time apart at all. If Columbo or the In-Laws are things you've appreciated, you'll enjoy this. You have to appreciate an author that writes as if he's speaking to you. Favourite line that pops up a few times: "Listen to this."
October 17, 2018
He was right: short and sweet. It did have its funny parts.
I jolted every time they kept referring to him as Peter . . . . Columbo! We all know him--forever--as Columbo!
I jolted every time they kept referring to him as Peter . . . . Columbo! We all know him--forever--as Columbo!
June 12, 2020
This was so much fun! I thoroughly enjoyed the stories and the reflections. The stories are short and entertaining, and I double-dog dare you to read this book in any voice other than Mr. Falk's.
January 8, 2021
Columbo is the beans
September 4, 2024
no real insight, surface level tales of life and times, and yet strangely enjoyable
does seem to have had quite a haphazard career
does seem to have had quite a haphazard career
Read
April 5, 2021"i'm not dumb, but a part of me is on the moon.'
easy, breezy, beautiful. i love you sir!
also, can't get over mike nichols giving peter his first valium and explaining to him what an anxiety attack was
easy, breezy, beautiful. i love you sir!
also, can't get over mike nichols giving peter his first valium and explaining to him what an anxiety attack was
November 4, 2017
I found this very interesting, and couldn't wait to finish reading it. I'm also a big columbo fan also, and I'd definitely read this again.
May 3, 2019
JUST ONE MORE THING is more a collection of anecdotes than a proper autobiography. They're collected chronologically, told in Falk's inimitable style, and you get a visual picture of the famous actor sitting in the room and chatting to a writer over a couple of beers. It's a simplistic format, but that makes it a very fast read too. I come to this book as a massive fan of the TV show Columbo, so reading snippets and anecdotes from behind-the-scenes is highly enjoyable. Elsewhere, Falk discusses art, life, women, how he randomly fell into acting, and the problems he had as a one-eyed actor earlier on in his career.
November 15, 2024
I wanted to really like this book, as I’m a great fan of the man’s work, but didn’t. It’s a collection of supposedly amusing anecdotes from the actor’s life that are interesting to anyone interested in his life but which are poorly written and just don’t amuse. I suspect it was ghost-written in some haste. Shame really, though worth it to a fan like me just for the illustrations, which include some of Falk’s drawings.
January 4, 2025
Over the last year I have alternated seasons of M*A*S*H* and Columbo. It was hard after ever season of Columbo not to just start the next. I because fascinated with Peter Falk while watching these made for TV movies. I wanted to read Falk’s autobiography Just One More Thing, but there is no eBook edition so I know it will take me a while to get around to reading it. But I have read a biography and 2 of the Columbo novels. Once I started reading this I could hardly put it down. It was as compelling as an episode of the show itself, and filled with far more humour.
This volume is not a typical autobiography. Sometimes he goes back and forth in time. Focuses on the people and places in his life. And it is mainly a storyteller telling tales about his life and adventures on and off the screen. There are just as many stories about being on the set as off. But the main thing is the people in his life, and his interactions with them. The book is also filled with pictures and numerous of Falk’s own drawings.
The chapters in the volume are:
foreward
on being nominated for an academy award
you have you stories and i have eye stories
my wife shera
thinking about faye dunaway while driving
on being a young man who has no idea what he wants to do with his life (p.s. and he is in no hurry to find out)
i graduate college-next day paris
on working to get a master's degree in a field you have no interest in and no aptitude for
on the thin line dividing naivete from stupidity, or why it took 12 years to become an actor
on the four words that broke the camel's back
the big apple and my first play
the iceman cometh
jason robards tells a good story
on being an actor with one eye
marjorie morningstar
leo penn's ad-lib
on my wedding day
my father
i have never been arrested in the united states but i have been arrested in ...
murder, inc.
on my first meeting with frank capra
on wanting to kiss frank capra
on the role overcoats can play in an actor's career
making a movie in russia-why?!
it's a mad, mad, mad, mad world
robin and the seven hoods
the great race
arthur miller tells a good story
on what i had and you didn't-a lou lilly in my life
getting arrested in genoa 1
the raisin story
anzio
how did the columbo character evolve?
columbo odds and ends - to play Columbo makeup not required-unlike some other actors
"this old man, he played one he played knickknack on my thumb"
columbo odds and ends-god never designed any one human to be recognized by two billion other humans
columbo odds and ends-descriptions
what's the toughest thing about creating a columbo?
great clues
the early days-the fights-the disputes-the distrust
in summit meetings called to settle disputes, where the star of a tv series sits can be decisive
peter falk's ad-lib
shera stories
john cassavetes
first meeting with john
husbands
a woman under the influence
what is a cassavetes set like?
getting a laugh
cassavetes-a tribute
neil simon
actors as artists
drawing art students' league
a message to the people of romania
can movie directors help movie actors? if so, how?
on why i wasn't in the godfather
why marlon brando wars an earplug
the brinks job
the in-laws
how the in-laws began
the in-laws: years later, alan and i share a joyous moment
wings of desire
the princess bride
happy new year
room mates
epilogue
The book begins with these words:
“WHEN I WAS growing up, a biography was the life of Abe Lincoln. Today every fifth person is a legend or icon. I go into Nate and Al's, a delicatessen in Beverly Hills, and in the next booth there are three icons sitting there eating pastrami sandwiches.
so this is not an autobiography!
To be honest, I don't know what you'd call it. I know it's funny you'll laugh a lot. And when I talk about Columbo, it's interesting. He absorbed me
and how he evolved will absorb you.
There's a chapter on Marlon Brando. He never acted without wearing a plug in his ear. That's a fact and all of us actors were fascinated. When you read about it, I believe you will be as consumed as I was.”
And it concludes with these:
“M y AGENT CALLED the other day with an offer for a part in a new film. As always, my first question: "How much are they paying?" Some things never change. We can all say that about our lives, and there's some truth in it-some things never change It's certainly true in my case-but with one EXCEPTION. And that EXCEPTION just happened. I've just WRITTEN A BOOK! Talk about change! Who would dream I would ever write a book! Not me! Not my wife, not my doctor, dogs, family, friends, or acquaintances. Let me sum up by saying it was a blast! The funny stuff. Reliving it. Putting it on paper. If you had as much fun reading it as I had writing it, you'll be dancing on the ceiling. For those of you still in your chairs, I'm delighted you're still awake. I love you for staying with me until the end.”
I highlighted a few passages while reading this collection of stories some of them are:
“I'VE BEEN ASKED a few thousand times how much of Columbo is Falk and vice versa. For years I've had a stock answer 'Tm just as sloppy as the lieutenant but not nearly as smart." That was a quickie response for the media. They're drawn to anything that takes less than five seconds. The truth is, no one is like Columbo. He's unique-if he were up for auction, he would be described as "One of a kind-a human with the brain of Sherlock Holmes who dresses like the homeless."”
“WHY DID IT take so long to decide to be an actor? Obviously fear-fear of failure, but fear by itself is too simple. It was fear coupled with my highly romantic, ridiculously unrealistic notion of what constituted an actor.”
“THERE HAVE BEEN many descriptions of Columbo. My favorite is: Columbo is an ass-backward Sherlock Holmes.*
The above is perfect just as it is. But I'm a hog and can't help
adding to it. . . .
• Holmes has a long thin neck-Columbo has no neck.
• Holmes speaks the King's English-Columbo is still working on his.
• Holmes wears tailor-made British tweeds - Columbo's coat should be cleaned and burned.
• Oh, another good description-Being chased by Columbo is like being nibbled to death by a duck.”
This was a fascinating read. At the time of writing this review there are over 20 editions of this book and it has been published in at least 6 languages. It was interesting to learn about his life and the meandering route he took to become an actor. He states:
“So why did I wait forty-four years to take up drawing? I believed my delay was related to that naive notion that having to look while you're drawing was somehow cheating. However, claiming that naivete is involved is a tough sell. It sounds too dumb. Instead I see a definite pattern of delays in my life:
1 . It took twelve years for me to decide to become an actor.
2 . I didn't get married until I was 32.
3. It took 43 years for me to take up drawing, and another 31 years to go to watercolor.”
He is open about many of his faults. And Many of his struggles. He shares successes, triumphs and some big mistakes. And he does it all in a self-effacing way. I knew he did other acting but was unaware of just how much. And this volume seems to give inside information on almost everything he was in. For fans of Columbo or fans of Falk in general this will be a fascinating read. Some of the stories of his capers are laugh out loud funny. And some are much more sombre. An excellent read!
This volume is not a typical autobiography. Sometimes he goes back and forth in time. Focuses on the people and places in his life. And it is mainly a storyteller telling tales about his life and adventures on and off the screen. There are just as many stories about being on the set as off. But the main thing is the people in his life, and his interactions with them. The book is also filled with pictures and numerous of Falk’s own drawings.
The chapters in the volume are:
foreward
on being nominated for an academy award
you have you stories and i have eye stories
my wife shera
thinking about faye dunaway while driving
on being a young man who has no idea what he wants to do with his life (p.s. and he is in no hurry to find out)
i graduate college-next day paris
on working to get a master's degree in a field you have no interest in and no aptitude for
on the thin line dividing naivete from stupidity, or why it took 12 years to become an actor
on the four words that broke the camel's back
the big apple and my first play
the iceman cometh
jason robards tells a good story
on being an actor with one eye
marjorie morningstar
leo penn's ad-lib
on my wedding day
my father
i have never been arrested in the united states but i have been arrested in ...
murder, inc.
on my first meeting with frank capra
on wanting to kiss frank capra
on the role overcoats can play in an actor's career
making a movie in russia-why?!
it's a mad, mad, mad, mad world
robin and the seven hoods
the great race
arthur miller tells a good story
on what i had and you didn't-a lou lilly in my life
getting arrested in genoa 1
the raisin story
anzio
how did the columbo character evolve?
columbo odds and ends - to play Columbo makeup not required-unlike some other actors
"this old man, he played one he played knickknack on my thumb"
columbo odds and ends-god never designed any one human to be recognized by two billion other humans
columbo odds and ends-descriptions
what's the toughest thing about creating a columbo?
great clues
the early days-the fights-the disputes-the distrust
in summit meetings called to settle disputes, where the star of a tv series sits can be decisive
peter falk's ad-lib
shera stories
john cassavetes
first meeting with john
husbands
a woman under the influence
what is a cassavetes set like?
getting a laugh
cassavetes-a tribute
neil simon
actors as artists
drawing art students' league
a message to the people of romania
can movie directors help movie actors? if so, how?
on why i wasn't in the godfather
why marlon brando wars an earplug
the brinks job
the in-laws
how the in-laws began
the in-laws: years later, alan and i share a joyous moment
wings of desire
the princess bride
happy new year
room mates
epilogue
The book begins with these words:
“WHEN I WAS growing up, a biography was the life of Abe Lincoln. Today every fifth person is a legend or icon. I go into Nate and Al's, a delicatessen in Beverly Hills, and in the next booth there are three icons sitting there eating pastrami sandwiches.
so this is not an autobiography!
To be honest, I don't know what you'd call it. I know it's funny you'll laugh a lot. And when I talk about Columbo, it's interesting. He absorbed me
and how he evolved will absorb you.
There's a chapter on Marlon Brando. He never acted without wearing a plug in his ear. That's a fact and all of us actors were fascinated. When you read about it, I believe you will be as consumed as I was.”
And it concludes with these:
“M y AGENT CALLED the other day with an offer for a part in a new film. As always, my first question: "How much are they paying?" Some things never change. We can all say that about our lives, and there's some truth in it-some things never change It's certainly true in my case-but with one EXCEPTION. And that EXCEPTION just happened. I've just WRITTEN A BOOK! Talk about change! Who would dream I would ever write a book! Not me! Not my wife, not my doctor, dogs, family, friends, or acquaintances. Let me sum up by saying it was a blast! The funny stuff. Reliving it. Putting it on paper. If you had as much fun reading it as I had writing it, you'll be dancing on the ceiling. For those of you still in your chairs, I'm delighted you're still awake. I love you for staying with me until the end.”
I highlighted a few passages while reading this collection of stories some of them are:
“I'VE BEEN ASKED a few thousand times how much of Columbo is Falk and vice versa. For years I've had a stock answer 'Tm just as sloppy as the lieutenant but not nearly as smart." That was a quickie response for the media. They're drawn to anything that takes less than five seconds. The truth is, no one is like Columbo. He's unique-if he were up for auction, he would be described as "One of a kind-a human with the brain of Sherlock Holmes who dresses like the homeless."”
“WHY DID IT take so long to decide to be an actor? Obviously fear-fear of failure, but fear by itself is too simple. It was fear coupled with my highly romantic, ridiculously unrealistic notion of what constituted an actor.”
“THERE HAVE BEEN many descriptions of Columbo. My favorite is: Columbo is an ass-backward Sherlock Holmes.*
The above is perfect just as it is. But I'm a hog and can't help
adding to it. . . .
• Holmes has a long thin neck-Columbo has no neck.
• Holmes speaks the King's English-Columbo is still working on his.
• Holmes wears tailor-made British tweeds - Columbo's coat should be cleaned and burned.
• Oh, another good description-Being chased by Columbo is like being nibbled to death by a duck.”
This was a fascinating read. At the time of writing this review there are over 20 editions of this book and it has been published in at least 6 languages. It was interesting to learn about his life and the meandering route he took to become an actor. He states:
“So why did I wait forty-four years to take up drawing? I believed my delay was related to that naive notion that having to look while you're drawing was somehow cheating. However, claiming that naivete is involved is a tough sell. It sounds too dumb. Instead I see a definite pattern of delays in my life:
1 . It took twelve years for me to decide to become an actor.
2 . I didn't get married until I was 32.
3. It took 43 years for me to take up drawing, and another 31 years to go to watercolor.”
He is open about many of his faults. And Many of his struggles. He shares successes, triumphs and some big mistakes. And he does it all in a self-effacing way. I knew he did other acting but was unaware of just how much. And this volume seems to give inside information on almost everything he was in. For fans of Columbo or fans of Falk in general this will be a fascinating read. Some of the stories of his capers are laugh out loud funny. And some are much more sombre. An excellent read!
November 2, 2012
Three and a half stars.
I've recently become a Columbo fan and wanted to read this based on that and what several people who worked with Falk over the years said about him.
As other reviewers here have noted, and as Falk himself acknowledges in the Preface to this book, it's not really an autobiography or memoir in the true sense of the word. It doesn't attempt to plumb the depths of the subject's soul or psyche or assign any meaning to the life and work of Falk. Not really. Instead, it's a collection of anecdotes from his life and career that are meant to be humorous and/or entertaining.
(We also learn right off that Falk likes to look at and draw women in various stages of undress: samples are provided.)
I did smile quite a bit and even chuckled out loud a few times while reading this. Stories about a running joke on Falk by cartoonist Lou Lilly and the just plain weirdness of Marlon Brando stood out, along with Falk's adventures behind the Iron Curtain and in Cuba on the eve of the Castro Revolution.
While I appreciated the humor, I could't help but feel about 2/3 of the way through the book that Falk was starting to remind me of one of those people that are funny and charming at first but then you realize that the over-reliance on humor is a defense mechanism that starts to wear a bit thin.
One of the few times Falk got serious and showed a glimmer of depth was when discussing his friend John Cassavetes, whom he obviously loved and respected.
As stated earlier, part of my curiosity about Falk was piqued by what those who had worked with him over the years had said (e.g. Gena Rowlands, Johnny Cash, and Frank Capra, etc.). I sense that he was a more complicated and interesting person than he is letting on here. And I'm guessing that had to have fed into his unique characterizations (and not just Columbo) beyond someone who tries to turn everything into a joke or amusing story.
In the end, even though I enjoyed most of the stories and was forewarned, I still couldn't help but want a little more substance.
I've recently become a Columbo fan and wanted to read this based on that and what several people who worked with Falk over the years said about him.
As other reviewers here have noted, and as Falk himself acknowledges in the Preface to this book, it's not really an autobiography or memoir in the true sense of the word. It doesn't attempt to plumb the depths of the subject's soul or psyche or assign any meaning to the life and work of Falk. Not really. Instead, it's a collection of anecdotes from his life and career that are meant to be humorous and/or entertaining.
(We also learn right off that Falk likes to look at and draw women in various stages of undress: samples are provided.)
I did smile quite a bit and even chuckled out loud a few times while reading this. Stories about a running joke on Falk by cartoonist Lou Lilly and the just plain weirdness of Marlon Brando stood out, along with Falk's adventures behind the Iron Curtain and in Cuba on the eve of the Castro Revolution.
While I appreciated the humor, I could't help but feel about 2/3 of the way through the book that Falk was starting to remind me of one of those people that are funny and charming at first but then you realize that the over-reliance on humor is a defense mechanism that starts to wear a bit thin.
One of the few times Falk got serious and showed a glimmer of depth was when discussing his friend John Cassavetes, whom he obviously loved and respected.
As stated earlier, part of my curiosity about Falk was piqued by what those who had worked with him over the years had said (e.g. Gena Rowlands, Johnny Cash, and Frank Capra, etc.). I sense that he was a more complicated and interesting person than he is letting on here. And I'm guessing that had to have fed into his unique characterizations (and not just Columbo) beyond someone who tries to turn everything into a joke or amusing story.
In the end, even though I enjoyed most of the stories and was forewarned, I still couldn't help but want a little more substance.
January 19, 2023
I love Columbo, so I (naively) went into this book thinking that a lot of the content would be about his time on the show; the title and picture on the cover also suggested this would be the case, but unfortunately it's not. Out of the 280-ish pages, only around 30-40 actually cover the Columbo-era. The rest features various snippets and stories from the remainder of his career. But it’s a strange read; from the very beginning, Peter admits this isn’t an autobiography- he wanted it to be a book that you could pick up, read for 10 minutes, set it down and then come back to later. And that’s exactly what you can do with this book; but I wasn’t prepared for just how non-autobiographical it really is. While reading, I also got the impression that Peter Falk was very egotistical, which was disappointing; but maybe it's just how he told the stories? Overall, you're not missing anything if you don't read this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews