Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat, and Tears

Více o knize

America may lack royalty, but it has the Academy Awards, where starlets, leading men, and ambitious producers vie for the coveted Oscar. Originating as a modest industry banquet in 1929, the ceremony has transformed into a grand spectacle marked by red carpets and golden statuettes. Beneath the glamour lies a fierce battleground reflecting Hollywood's history and, by extension, America's narrative. The journey to the Oscars is not just glamorous; it is fraught with struggle and heartbreak. Michael Schulman chronicles the Academy Awards' expansive history, revealing personal dramas—some well-known, others previously hidden—that have unfolded both on stage and behind the scenes. Each chapter delves into a specific year, conflict, or category, illustrating broader cultural shifts from figures like Louis B. Mayer to the film Moonlight. Schulman highlights the complexities of the red carpet, where victories are often ambiguous and ambitions collide. The narrative features a diverse array of Hollywood's most influential figures, alongside those who challenged the status quo. This engaging history offers a collection of insightful stories, each marking a significant moment for the Academy, cinema, or society at large.