No. Most of these stories are not reliable. They were often part of the Hollywood rumor mill. Studios and tabloids had a habit of creating scandalous stories to boost publicity or to control the images of actors. So, the so - called 'nymphomaniac' stories were likely just a product of the cut - throat Hollywood environment.
These stories have also influenced the types of stories being told in Hollywood today. For instance, the success of Sidney Poitier in breaking racial barriers made it possible for more complex and diverse stories about black characters to be told. Studios are now more likely to invest in movies with black leads and stories that explore the black experience. This is a direct result of the early struggles and successes in old Hollywood. Moreover, the stories of discrimination faced by black actors back then have led to more awareness and activism in the industry regarding equal opportunities for all ethnic groups.
One disturbing story is the exploitation of child actors. For example, Judy Garland was overworked and given drugs to control her weight and energy levels during her time at MGM. She was a young girl dealing with adult pressures in the Hollywood system, which had a tragic impact on her mental and physical health later in life.
Yes, there are. For example, the scandal involving Fatty Arbuckle. He was accused of rape and murder in a very high - profile case that shocked Old Hollywood. This incident led to major changes in the film industry's moral code and how they dealt with actors' behavior.
A very well - known one is 'F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Last Tycoon'. It offers an insider's view of Hollywood during its golden age. Fitzgerald was working in Hollywood when he wrote it, and it shows the power struggles, the creative processes, and the glamour as well as the darker sides of the industry.
I highly recommend 'The Seven-Per - Cent Solution' by Nicholas Meyer. It's a fictional account that involves Sherlock Holmes in an old Hollywood - like mystery. It has all the elements of a great mystery set against the backdrop of the glitz and glamour of Hollywood's early days.
The story of Charlie Chaplin is quite interesting too. He had a very controversial personal life. His marriages and affairs were often in the spotlight. His left - leaning political views also got him in trouble during the McCarthy era. He was even accused of being a communist sympathizer and faced a lot of difficulties in Hollywood as a result.
The story of the filming of 'The Wizard of Oz' is a very interesting one. From the casting decisions to the technical difficulties and creative choices, it's a tale full of twists and turns.
One great Old Hollywood fiction book is 'The Day of the Locust' by Nathanael West. It gives a dark and satirical view of Hollywood in the 1930s. Another is 'What Makes Sammy Run?' by Budd Schulberg which delves into the cut - throat nature of the Hollywood dream. Also, 'F. Scott Fitzgerald's short stories often touch on Hollywood themes and the allure and decay of the movie industry.
Cary Grant was one of the most influential. His suave and debonair image was copied by many. He had a natural charm in his acting that made him a favorite among audiences. Films like 'North by Northwest' showcased his talent for both action and comedy.