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Q1 2021

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44 C I N E M O N T A G E B O O K R E V I E W By Betsy McClane A l a n K . R o d e's b o o k " M i c h a e l Curtiz" is a meticulously re - s e a r c h e d , c l e a r - e y e d , a n d comprehensive look at the director's career. It contains nearly 100 pages of notes, bibliography and indices, and is part of the extensive "Screen Clas- sics" series published by The University Here's Looking at You HE MADE 'CASABLANCA.' OFF THE SET, MICHAEL CURTIZ SOMETIMES LEFT BEHIND A MESS AND BRUISED EGOS. Press of Kentucky. This academic pedi- gree brings gravitas, but it does not get in the way of a good writer delivering an account of Curtiz' extensive but often underappreciated career. Rode's style is highly readable and easily captures the quirks and humor as well as the drama and antagonism of many behind-the- scenes moments. It is an enlightening assessment of a life spent entirely think- ing about and making movies. Some people find their lives in making films, or more decidedly, making films is life. Those working in any aspect of the entertainment business, perhaps espe- cially editors, may find that their work is Curtiz visiting Las Vegas in 1956 with his sometime star (and reportedly mistress), Anitra Stevens (right). P H O T O : L O S A N G E L E S P U B L I C L I B R A R Y C O L L E C T I O N

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