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This Was Hollywood: Forgotten Stars and Stories
In this one-of-a-kind Hollywood history, Carla Valderrama -- creator of Instagram's celebrated @ThisWasHollywood -- reveals the forgotten past of the film world in a dazzling visual package modeled on the classic fan magazines of yesteryear.
From former screen legends who have faded into obscurity to new revelations about the movies' biggest stars, Valderrama unearths the most fascinating little-known tales from the birth of Hollywood through its Golden Age.
The shocking fate of the world's first movie star. Clark Gable's secret love child. The film that nearly ended Paul Newman's career. A former child star who, at 93, reveals her #metoo story for the first time. Valderrama unfolds these stories, and many more, in a volume that is by turns riveting, maddening, hilarious, and shocking.
Drawing on new interviews, archival research, and an exhaustive library of photographs, This Was Hollywood is a compelling and visually stunning catalogue of the lost history of the movies.
From former screen legends who have faded into obscurity to new revelations about the movies' biggest stars, Valderrama unearths the most fascinating little-known tales from the birth of Hollywood through its Golden Age.
The shocking fate of the world's first movie star. Clark Gable's secret love child. The film that nearly ended Paul Newman's career. A former child star who, at 93, reveals her #metoo story for the first time. Valderrama unfolds these stories, and many more, in a volume that is by turns riveting, maddening, hilarious, and shocking.
Drawing on new interviews, archival research, and an exhaustive library of photographs, This Was Hollywood is a compelling and visually stunning catalogue of the lost history of the movies.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published November 17, 2020
116 people are currently reading
1334 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
December 15, 2020
This was Hollywood: Forgotten Stars and Stories (Turner Classic Movies) by Carla Valderrma is a 2020 Running Press Adult publication.
This is a wonderful TCM book spotlighting 'Old Hollywood' and featuring a few of the stars who enjoyed a brief brush with fame but faded into obscurity. It should be noted, however, that many recognizable names get their fair share of space in this book, as well.
The layout of the book is cleverly patterned after vintage fan magazines and is chock full of vivid, color photographs and the most interesting Hollywood history.
Early silent film stars, forgotten heart throbs, power couples, animal movie stars, (Remeber Rin Tin Tin?), successful women behind the camera, the first Academy Awards show, saving the 'Hollywood' sign, child stars, musicals, and spotlights on various film stars like Paul Newman and Rita Hayworth.
I think this book would make a great gift for the fans of old Hollywood, Turner Classic Movies, or history!
This is a wonderful TCM book spotlighting 'Old Hollywood' and featuring a few of the stars who enjoyed a brief brush with fame but faded into obscurity. It should be noted, however, that many recognizable names get their fair share of space in this book, as well.
The layout of the book is cleverly patterned after vintage fan magazines and is chock full of vivid, color photographs and the most interesting Hollywood history.
Early silent film stars, forgotten heart throbs, power couples, animal movie stars, (Remeber Rin Tin Tin?), successful women behind the camera, the first Academy Awards show, saving the 'Hollywood' sign, child stars, musicals, and spotlights on various film stars like Paul Newman and Rita Hayworth.
I think this book would make a great gift for the fans of old Hollywood, Turner Classic Movies, or history!
November 12, 2022
4-1/2*
Some interesting and fascinating stories about Hollywood of old. Some familiar names and some I never heard of. So many are just sad clearly ‘super stardom’ is not all it’s cracked up to be.
To mention a few:
Hollywood’s first movie star Florence Lawrence, born in Ontario, Canada (January 1886 – December 1938) so-called as she was the first film star to have her name mentioned in the film credits.
Others include the wonder dog Rin Tin Tin; the harrowing tale of John Garfield who was hounded by the FBI and HUAC for no good reason; Child star Cora Sue who was on her way to being as big a star as Shirley Temple until at age fifteen writer Harry Ruskin (age 50) told her the part was hers “…but you have to sleep with me”; and Marni Nixon whose voice is heard in musicals such as “The King and I” (Deborah Kerr) among other well-known musicals, but never mentioned in the movie credits.
Fabulous photographs throughout but I have had to take off half-star due to print which is so small it was troublesome to read and spoiled this otherwise lovely book for me.
Some interesting and fascinating stories about Hollywood of old. Some familiar names and some I never heard of. So many are just sad clearly ‘super stardom’ is not all it’s cracked up to be.
To mention a few:
Hollywood’s first movie star Florence Lawrence, born in Ontario, Canada (January 1886 – December 1938) so-called as she was the first film star to have her name mentioned in the film credits.
Others include the wonder dog Rin Tin Tin; the harrowing tale of John Garfield who was hounded by the FBI and HUAC for no good reason; Child star Cora Sue who was on her way to being as big a star as Shirley Temple until at age fifteen writer Harry Ruskin (age 50) told her the part was hers “…but you have to sleep with me”; and Marni Nixon whose voice is heard in musicals such as “The King and I” (Deborah Kerr) among other well-known musicals, but never mentioned in the movie credits.
Fabulous photographs throughout but I have had to take off half-star due to print which is so small it was troublesome to read and spoiled this otherwise lovely book for me.
December 8, 2020
Absolutely love this meticulously researched and lovingly put together book. Designed to mimic the look of old gossip magazines, this book is full of interesting and detailed stories about Hollywood's Golden Age and beyond. I hope this isn't Valderrama's last book!
Some highlights:
*Hollywood(town) - A town founded by prohibitionist who hoped to create a sin-free oasis...Oh, the irony. Filmmakers began heading out west to escape Thomas Edison and his patents (and his enforcement goons). After Peg Entwistle committed suicide by jumping off the 'H' in the 1930s, the famous sign fell into a long period of neglect until celebrities rallied together to save it in the 1970s.
*Florence Lawrence - The first 'movie star'. Initially, actors names were not listed on credits - partly due to the stigma of the industry, but also to protect filmmakers financial interests from actors demanding higher wages. Eventually Lawrence's name was leaked and the 'star system' was born. Lawrence is also credited with inventing the predecessor to the turn signal and brake signal.
*Sessue Hayakawa - First actor of Asian descent to achieve sex-symbol status despite being typecast in 'exotic' villain roles.
*Academy Awards - created as an afterthought to to help Louis B. Mayer manipulate filmmakers and stave of attempts at unionizing.
*Cora Sue Collins - a child/teen star that rivaled Shirley Temple who was forced to quit acting in her teens due to blacklisting because she refused to sleep with directors and filmmakers. Nothing changes.
*Nicholas Bros: An incredible dancing duo who only missed mainstream success because of the color of their skin. Seriously, look them up on Youtube, and prepare to be amazed!
*A Star is Born: A fascinating history of the story that's been made into a film FOUR times and the real-life stories behind them all.
*The story of a date rape and the subsequent hidden pregnancy of two of Hollywood's biggest stars.
*How Olivia de Havilland's successfully sued Warner and changed the studio system forever.
*The tragic story of John Garfield whose liberal politics landed him in the crosshairs of HUAC - ending his career, ruining his health, and causing his death by heart attack at 39.
*The transformation of chubby Margarita Cansino into redheaded 'Love Goddess', Rita Hayworth.
*Marni Nixon, the ghost singer for some of Hollywood's most iconic roles - My Fair Lady, The King and I, West Side Story, etc.
*And many more!
Some highlights:
*Hollywood(town) - A town founded by prohibitionist who hoped to create a sin-free oasis...Oh, the irony. Filmmakers began heading out west to escape Thomas Edison and his patents (and his enforcement goons). After Peg Entwistle committed suicide by jumping off the 'H' in the 1930s, the famous sign fell into a long period of neglect until celebrities rallied together to save it in the 1970s.
*Florence Lawrence - The first 'movie star'. Initially, actors names were not listed on credits - partly due to the stigma of the industry, but also to protect filmmakers financial interests from actors demanding higher wages. Eventually Lawrence's name was leaked and the 'star system' was born. Lawrence is also credited with inventing the predecessor to the turn signal and brake signal.
*Sessue Hayakawa - First actor of Asian descent to achieve sex-symbol status despite being typecast in 'exotic' villain roles.
*Academy Awards - created as an afterthought to to help Louis B. Mayer manipulate filmmakers and stave of attempts at unionizing.
*Cora Sue Collins - a child/teen star that rivaled Shirley Temple who was forced to quit acting in her teens due to blacklisting because she refused to sleep with directors and filmmakers. Nothing changes.
*Nicholas Bros: An incredible dancing duo who only missed mainstream success because of the color of their skin. Seriously, look them up on Youtube, and prepare to be amazed!
*A Star is Born: A fascinating history of the story that's been made into a film FOUR times and the real-life stories behind them all.
*The story of a date rape and the subsequent hidden pregnancy of two of Hollywood's biggest stars.
*How Olivia de Havilland's successfully sued Warner and changed the studio system forever.
*The tragic story of John Garfield whose liberal politics landed him in the crosshairs of HUAC - ending his career, ruining his health, and causing his death by heart attack at 39.
*The transformation of chubby Margarita Cansino into redheaded 'Love Goddess', Rita Hayworth.
*Marni Nixon, the ghost singer for some of Hollywood's most iconic roles - My Fair Lady, The King and I, West Side Story, etc.
*And many more!
December 15, 2020
For a movie buff, this is probably a five star read. Carla Valderrama has collected stories from the very beginning of the Hollywood film industry through its Golden Age, including forgotten stars, buried scandals, and more. Not being even a little bit obsessed with all things Hollywood, I'm not exactly the target audience for this book, but I too found it surprisingly interesting.
April 4, 2025
THIS WAS HOLLYWOOD: FORGOTTEN STARS AND STORIES took me completely by surprise. I had long-delayed reading it as I thought it would concentrate on "character actor" profiles. Yet, the focus was much more intriguing and well-worth reading, despite my having read many film history studies over the years.
The writer's emphasis is on stories about Hollywood that had a significant impact on how films were made, but that didn't receive much publicity. Even on topics that I had read about before, such as the formation of "Hollywood" or Paul Newman's one-man publicity campaign against his film, "The Silver Chalice," I still learned facts that I hadn't known before.
In some instances, I "discovered" seemingly forgotten personalities who were entirely new to me. I am actually ashamed to say that this was the first time I'd read about The Nicholas Brothers whose dancing innovations influenced so many films (including "Singing In The Rain"). Others of whom I did have at least some knowledge, such as Eleanor Powell, now have a number of their films on my Watchlist as I didn't realize the extent of their contributions.
THIS WAS HOLLYWOOD: FORGOTTEN STARS AND STORIES did have one major drawback for me. The physical layout is a bit similar to those of feature publication magazines (such as "Smithsonian Magazine") which contain so much information in their two-column pages that the smaller type-setting can be difficult to read. Having read Reader comments that cited that, I purchased the Kindle version of the book that allowed me to quickly magnify the size of the page for ease of reading. I would usually deduct a "star" for difficult layouts, but this book was enjoyed way too much for me to do that. Also, the accompanying photographs were excellent.
For anyone who wants to learn more about the obscure backstories that are also a part of Hollywood's fabled history, I cannot recommend this book enough. Even those who aren't massive film fans will likely find the writer's engaging style to be a great deal of fun.
The writer's emphasis is on stories about Hollywood that had a significant impact on how films were made, but that didn't receive much publicity. Even on topics that I had read about before, such as the formation of "Hollywood" or Paul Newman's one-man publicity campaign against his film, "The Silver Chalice," I still learned facts that I hadn't known before.
In some instances, I "discovered" seemingly forgotten personalities who were entirely new to me. I am actually ashamed to say that this was the first time I'd read about The Nicholas Brothers whose dancing innovations influenced so many films (including "Singing In The Rain"). Others of whom I did have at least some knowledge, such as Eleanor Powell, now have a number of their films on my Watchlist as I didn't realize the extent of their contributions.
THIS WAS HOLLYWOOD: FORGOTTEN STARS AND STORIES did have one major drawback for me. The physical layout is a bit similar to those of feature publication magazines (such as "Smithsonian Magazine") which contain so much information in their two-column pages that the smaller type-setting can be difficult to read. Having read Reader comments that cited that, I purchased the Kindle version of the book that allowed me to quickly magnify the size of the page for ease of reading. I would usually deduct a "star" for difficult layouts, but this book was enjoyed way too much for me to do that. Also, the accompanying photographs were excellent.
For anyone who wants to learn more about the obscure backstories that are also a part of Hollywood's fabled history, I cannot recommend this book enough. Even those who aren't massive film fans will likely find the writer's engaging style to be a great deal of fun.
April 15, 2021
For the reader who is a diehard movie fan or has an interest in the history of the movie industry in Hollywood, "THIS WAS HOLLYWOOD: Forgotten Stars and Stories" is a must-read. It's full of photos (both B&W and color) and stories about Hollywood's origins and development over time (I wonder how many people knew that the early motion picture industry in the U.S. was first centered in New Jersey, where Thomas Edison built the first movie studio in 1892) and the stories of a number of stars --- some well-known even today (e.g. Paul Newman) --- and motion picture pioneers, whose fortunes blazed brightly but were later cruelly cut short for a variety of reasons.
This book comes HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
This book comes HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
December 2, 2020
This Was Hollywood is a MUST BUY. With empathy, humor and thorough research, Valderrama effectively unpacks the glamour, allure, secrecy and scandal that shaped the Golden Age of Hollywood. The book features stars/stories you’ve heard of and many you haven’t, but the insight provided on all is 100% fresh.
As someone who has long been a fan of Classic Hollywood and done quite a bit of reading about the era, this book is by FAR one of the best and most insightful that I’ve come across. I can’t stress enough how impressed I am by the book’s depth of information, all while remaining very accessible for all types of readers. Whether you’re looking to learn about Classic Hollywood’s obscurities, craving a deeper understanding of Hollywood’s history or just wanting to look at the book’s STUNNING photos - this is for you. There’s truly something new to discover in here for EVERYONE (even though I thought I knew it all). Moreover, it’s a GREAT resource to reference for film recommendations. My To Watch list grew exponentially.
If you can’t tell already, this book is a treasure. Valderrama is a wonderful storyteller, a much-needed voice in this area and perhaps most importantly, a true enthusiast for what she writes about. If you’re still reading this.... stop and go buy it.
As someone who has long been a fan of Classic Hollywood and done quite a bit of reading about the era, this book is by FAR one of the best and most insightful that I’ve come across. I can’t stress enough how impressed I am by the book’s depth of information, all while remaining very accessible for all types of readers. Whether you’re looking to learn about Classic Hollywood’s obscurities, craving a deeper understanding of Hollywood’s history or just wanting to look at the book’s STUNNING photos - this is for you. There’s truly something new to discover in here for EVERYONE (even though I thought I knew it all). Moreover, it’s a GREAT resource to reference for film recommendations. My To Watch list grew exponentially.
If you can’t tell already, this book is a treasure. Valderrama is a wonderful storyteller, a much-needed voice in this area and perhaps most importantly, a true enthusiast for what she writes about. If you’re still reading this.... stop and go buy it.
December 1, 2020
If you are/have ever been interested in Hollywood's Golden Age, YOU NEED THIS BOOK! First of all, Carla Valderrama knows her s***. You may know her from her iconic Instagram page, @ThisWasHollywood, where she shares Golden Age history, aesthetics, trivia, and more. It is evident by her Instagram page that she is extremely passionate about Hollywood's greatest era, and this fervor comes out in her debut book as well.
This Was Hollywood: Forgotten Stars and Stories lives up to its name. As a major fan of the Golden Age, and an avid TCM watcher, I wrongfully assumed I had known it all! However, Valderrama has introduced me to another beautiful piece of history (which is the greatest gift one could ever give!). The designs in this book are absolutely breathtaking, as they resemble the old magazine pages of yesteryear. I cannot help but feel as if I am transported in time. This year has been a particularly hard one for everyone, and Valderrama's debut book cannot have come at a better time. Just looking at the pages that were designed so meticulously-- and that are so full of heart & soul-- is like finding a moment of much-needed peace.
All of the "forgotten stars and stories" are worth mentioning, but for the sake of space, I will mention only a few of my favorite sections. First, reading Lois Weber's story through Valderrama's poignant and unique voice moved me to literal tears. Historically, women in positions of power & creativity have always been overlooked. Valderrama's spotlight on Weber's iconic art & accomplishments is truly a treasure. I also loved how Valderrama highlighted the 1937 version of A Star Is Born-- an absolute favorite of mine and the one that I have always proclaimed was under appreciated!
Do yourself a favor and sink into one of the most intriguing and comforting books of the year. You certainly will not regret it. I am looking forward to seeing more of Valderrama's work!
This Was Hollywood: Forgotten Stars and Stories lives up to its name. As a major fan of the Golden Age, and an avid TCM watcher, I wrongfully assumed I had known it all! However, Valderrama has introduced me to another beautiful piece of history (which is the greatest gift one could ever give!). The designs in this book are absolutely breathtaking, as they resemble the old magazine pages of yesteryear. I cannot help but feel as if I am transported in time. This year has been a particularly hard one for everyone, and Valderrama's debut book cannot have come at a better time. Just looking at the pages that were designed so meticulously-- and that are so full of heart & soul-- is like finding a moment of much-needed peace.
All of the "forgotten stars and stories" are worth mentioning, but for the sake of space, I will mention only a few of my favorite sections. First, reading Lois Weber's story through Valderrama's poignant and unique voice moved me to literal tears. Historically, women in positions of power & creativity have always been overlooked. Valderrama's spotlight on Weber's iconic art & accomplishments is truly a treasure. I also loved how Valderrama highlighted the 1937 version of A Star Is Born-- an absolute favorite of mine and the one that I have always proclaimed was under appreciated!
Do yourself a favor and sink into one of the most intriguing and comforting books of the year. You certainly will not regret it. I am looking forward to seeing more of Valderrama's work!
May 31, 2022
I could not put this down. It so fascinating seeing all of these different stories of Hollywood that had a major impact, but don't really get talked about. This is so well researched and is very accessible. I would love to read more stories from this author.
February 24, 2021
Extra! Extra! Dig into the Drama of former stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood!
Experience the Nostalgia, reading these stories of Hollywood stars like Gossip columns, but the stories are far from melodramatic, mysterious or suspenseful!
Cover stories include
Clark Gable's secret love child discovers her own shocking heritage about her mother!
The woman who out-danced and intimidated dance master Fred Astaire!
Meet Hollywood's first female director!
Cats and Dogs take over Hollywood!
Meet the Pre-Valentino Japanese Sex Symbol that Time Forgot!
Starlet runs for President??
Former Child star, age 93, reveals her #ME TOO story!
Who is Hollywood's ghostly Woman in Black?
The sad truth of Hollywood is revealed, panning the camera back to reveal the pain, politics, sexism, racism, intimidation and honesty behind the glitz and glamour. The Cinematic telling reveals the stories of popular stars like Loretta Young, Olivia de Havilland, and Paul Newman. The unknown and lesser known stars of the 30's and 40's have equally compelling stories to share about producers, directors, fellow stars, and experiences. While this book shares many of their horrid experiences, it was the smallest details and never-before-shared photographs that made this book such a engaging read for me.
If you're a fan of movies, celebrities, history and pop-culture, this book is one for your shelves.
Experience the Nostalgia, reading these stories of Hollywood stars like Gossip columns, but the stories are far from melodramatic, mysterious or suspenseful!
Cover stories include
Clark Gable's secret love child discovers her own shocking heritage about her mother!
The woman who out-danced and intimidated dance master Fred Astaire!
Meet Hollywood's first female director!
Cats and Dogs take over Hollywood!
Meet the Pre-Valentino Japanese Sex Symbol that Time Forgot!
Starlet runs for President??
Former Child star, age 93, reveals her #ME TOO story!
Who is Hollywood's ghostly Woman in Black?
The sad truth of Hollywood is revealed, panning the camera back to reveal the pain, politics, sexism, racism, intimidation and honesty behind the glitz and glamour. The Cinematic telling reveals the stories of popular stars like Loretta Young, Olivia de Havilland, and Paul Newman. The unknown and lesser known stars of the 30's and 40's have equally compelling stories to share about producers, directors, fellow stars, and experiences. While this book shares many of their horrid experiences, it was the smallest details and never-before-shared photographs that made this book such a engaging read for me.
If you're a fan of movies, celebrities, history and pop-culture, this book is one for your shelves.
September 14, 2023
'This Was Hollywood: Forgotten Stars and Stories" collects a very unique and varied collection of “lost'' Hollywood - the would be stars and starlets lost to time; iconic locations and events; scandals; animals (actually a cat and a heroic); back stories on stars we thought we knew everything about; and some curious histories and origins. This is perfect for film fans and especially fans of TCM (it is one of their publications!). It is the kind of book that once one picks it up, it is hard to put down. I started reading it out of sequence and went back to fill in some of the chapters that I missed. As a fan of film history and silent cinema, I knew of Hollywood’s origin as the film mecca of the country and of course, how it all began here in NY/NJ on the East Coast. But as for the rest of the stories - not so much! - there is so much more. Carla Valderrama - known for @ThisWasHollywood on Instagram has gathered some truly interesting aspects of Hollywood and spins them all together like a record album full of eclectic and original songs: Who was the first true movie star? How did Valentino’s death send film fans into a frenzy? Where was the White House of Hollywood? Who was Marnie Nixon (you certainly have heard her voice!) What movie is constantly being remade?; and what was it like at the first Academy Awards?? These are just a sample of some of the all of the Hollywood tales included here and there are so many more throughout the 200 - plus pages. Going on vacation and need a great read? Or just looking for a literary trip back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, you’ll find a fascinating history lesson in this book.
February 12, 2025
Was absolutely captivated by this book! It’s a must for fans of old Hollywood!
February 23, 2021
4 stars. A collection of stories about the Hollywood(land) of yesteryear; some tragic, some scandalous, others amusing, but all fascinating. Some artists you'll know but it was the stories of unknowns who suffered at the hands of the industry in various ways (almost always young women) that I found most revealing, and sad. A great read for film fans.
October 15, 2020
Carla Valderrama, the mastermind curator behind Instagram's @ThisWasHollywood has truly outdone herself in uncovering the untold lore behind Tinseltown! As a connoisseur of Hollywood's yesteryear, author Carla Valderrma takes her deep passion in bringing out the rich history of integral figures that have contributed to all that is good from the film industry and its compelling formation. These tales are of figures that have entertained so many throughout the years and just now we're seeing their stories come to life. When reading 'This Was Hollywood: Forgotten Stars and Stories" it's truly moving to see voices comes to life; aided in beautifully illustrated and designed pages through such a unique & touching way. These are treasured chronicles that will stick with you as you journey along each page! This book is a must for any lover of Hollywood's history, perfectly serving up and fulfilling every reader's appetite, enveloped and articulated masterfully in handcrafted detail. Hollywood has brought dreams and ideas to a medium unlike any other consumer-driven industry and platform. Through all its ups and downfalls, Hollywood has served as a relic and ever living piece of "Americana". Hollywood and its storied past provides a relentless and inspiring outlet which spews and churns the imagination for many to continue its legacy- all through the lens of future performers, writers, filmmakers and show-makers known to the world a billion times over. Without these tales of trailblazers we may have never known and appreciated all that the silver screen has offered through the years. Thank you again Carla for bringing these stories to the center stage where they belong. This holiday season, make this book the spotlight of every film lover in your life.
I received an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review.
I received an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 18, 2020
This Was Hollywood will be an absolute delight to every movie lover and classic film fan. I strongly recommend this incredible debut book, lovingly written and expertly curated by Carla Valderrama, to anyone interested in the movies and in Hollywood history. I loved learning more about the lives of my favorite classic stars through her writing; however, as a longtime classic movie fan, it was even more refreshing to be introduced to those that I had never heard of before. The beautiful graphic design, inclusion of rare photos, and classic movie magazine format only added to my reading enjoyment!
You may know Valderrama as the creator of the phenomenal @ThisWasHollywood Instagram account, which has helped to heighten the accessibility of and general interest in the studio age, its films, and its stars. Just as she does on that platform, Valderrama excels in highlighting both the best remembered and the less remembered marvels of Hollywood's golden age in this book. She is a gifted writer, and her passion for storytelling is evident in every word. Whether you've loved classic films for as long as you can remember or you're new to the treasures of the golden age, you will finish this book with new knowledge, insight, and appreciation for its stars and architects.
I received an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review. I cannot overemphasize how much I enjoyed this read. Thank you, Carla, for sharing these stories and "discarded narratives" with us. You have truly brought to life the everlasting magic of the movies and its unsung heroes.
You may know Valderrama as the creator of the phenomenal @ThisWasHollywood Instagram account, which has helped to heighten the accessibility of and general interest in the studio age, its films, and its stars. Just as she does on that platform, Valderrama excels in highlighting both the best remembered and the less remembered marvels of Hollywood's golden age in this book. She is a gifted writer, and her passion for storytelling is evident in every word. Whether you've loved classic films for as long as you can remember or you're new to the treasures of the golden age, you will finish this book with new knowledge, insight, and appreciation for its stars and architects.
I received an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review. I cannot overemphasize how much I enjoyed this read. Thank you, Carla, for sharing these stories and "discarded narratives" with us. You have truly brought to life the everlasting magic of the movies and its unsung heroes.
October 13, 2020
This book is Marvelous, Dahhlingg, just Marvelous. “This Was Hollywood” is classically fabulous. The history and presentation is really well done. Carla’s writing is entertaining, informative, and flows well. The unknown history of Hollywood is just amazing, and I learned so much. The quality of her resources is respectful, and the information has me fall into love deeper with stars and see them even more human. I have a background in photography and graphic design, and I was blown a way by the genius and style of the design It was honestly beautiful to see a book design like this have the quality it did, it’s rare, usually poor quality. I felt with ‘This Was Hollywood’ as if I was waking down downtown LA in the 40s, and saw a magazine with Rita Hayworth I needed to have. I received an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review. Truly a wonderful experience reading this, and absorbing it.
October 6, 2020
I cannot recommend This Was Hollywood enough! The book is presented as an old Hollywood fan magazine, and covers dozens of subjects in masterly detail. It's clear that Valderrama has done a massive amount of research, and she is also a gifted writer, laying out several extremely complex stories in a totally accessible way. I love film history, but this book taught me a ton of new stuff, and the variety of stories was really impressive. Some are tragic tales of fallen stars, others are political dramas, and still others just random hilarious slices of Hollywood history. Valderrama captures just the right tone for each subject. There are also hundreds of amazing photos, and all the stories feature beautiful graphic design that brings the book to life in a totally unique way. I got an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Go read this book, everyone!
January 8, 2021
I really enjoyed this brief glimpse into forgotten stars and stories of Old Hollywood, aka pre-1960s. I enjoyed learning more about the Nicholas Brothers, who were amazing dancers but I haven't seen much of their work so I definitely want to remedy that, as well as movies by Sessue Hayakawa (most famous for "The Bridge of the River Kwai" which I have seen but it's been ages), Lois Weber, and Eleanor Powell (who apparently was the only person that Fred Astaire thought was better than him, and that's saying a lot). Vera Ellen's story was super sad, but I always love a mention of Danny Kaye, who used to be one of my favorite actors growing up (and I loved her in "On the Town" with Gene Kelly). 4 stars.
October 12, 2020
This Was Hollywood is so rich with information that it's impossible to absorb everything in a single read. I found myself returning to the book again and again, and coming away with something new I never knew about the industry and its biggest players. Carla Valderrama is a true Hollywood fan, and her passion comes through in the succinctness and style of her writing. This Was Hollywood marries the juicy gossip of a Hollywood Babylon with the history of an episode of Be Kind Rewind, packaged together with a jaw-dropping design (a rarity, since so many books about Hollywood history contain little to no images!). N.B. I received an Advanced Reading Copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 27, 2020
Really, really great! As an old Hollywood fan, I knew that I would vaguely know about some of the stories in this book, which I did, but I never felt like “This Was Hollywood” was just retelling the same stories. I learned quite a lot while reading, and the writing style lends itself to a nice, easy, and informative read.
At its core, this book is a series of articles, so it does end rather abruptly, but I enjoyed practically every moment while reading.
At its core, this book is a series of articles, so it does end rather abruptly, but I enjoyed practically every moment while reading.
January 26, 2021
Random amalgamation of tales of old Hollywood, full of facts and pictures and anecdotes. I wish it was longer I could have just kept going. Well researched and easy to read- a good antidote to the boring sociological text I read before it.
January 30, 2021
Well researched and well curated stories of old Hollywood paired with some really nice photographs, but the same-sameness of the writing sometimes makes the book feel like a collection of Parade magazine columns.
February 2, 2021
There was nothing that I didn't love about this. As I like to point out to people, I have a First Class Degree in film and I learnt SO MUCH in this book that it is shameful. So many forgotten stories beautifully told without embellishment or sensationalism. Just the most wonderful stories.
May 3, 2021
The stores were interesting, but the narrator’s pronunciation was atrocious. Making this a little difficult to listen to.
March 23, 2022
History and gossip about early Hollywood.
May 8, 2021
I have been fascinated by the entertainment industry for a while, even with it’s dark side. Upon finding this book and a familiar face: Sessue Hayakawa, I knew I wanted to read it. I was not disappointed, there are stories that are sad and compelling like Cora Sue and Rita Hayworth, and funny like Puzzums.
February 23, 2023
A very interesting book! Some stories were more fun to read than others, but I learned a lot about forgotten Hollywood stars I otherwise might not have known about. The print was very small though so it took me quite a while to finish. Four stars.
March 2, 2021
Such an interesting and well researched book. So easy to pick up and read a few pages.
June 29, 2021
I love old movies and always have. It was an interest I could share with my mom which made it all the better. This book is researched well and much of it is spent on those stars that most of us haven't heard much about. Reading about them and rounding that out with You Tube gave me an education about them! Super read.
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