Easy Riders, Raging Bulls: How the Sex-Drugs-And-Rock-'N'-Roll Generation Saved Hollywood : Book Review

"Easy Riders, Raging Bulls" by Peter Biskind is a captivating and insightful exploration of the rise and fall of the New Hollywood movement in the 1970s. Taking a deep dive into the lives and careers of influential filmmakers like Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola, Biskind reveals the behind-the-scenes drama and controversy that shaped this transformative period in American cinema.

Biskind's thorough research and attention to detail are evident throughout the book, providing a comprehensive account of the era's films, their reception, and their lasting impact on the industry. Through a wealth of anecdotes and interviews with key players, readers are given a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the personalities involved in the New Hollywood movement.

One of the book's strengths lies in its exploration of the unconventional and revolutionary filmmaking styles that emerged during this time. Biskind highlights the groundbreaking use of non-linear storytelling and the exploration of taboo subjects, showcasing the artistic freedom that characterized the New Hollywood movement.

However, Biskind also delves into the challenges and excesses that ultimately led to the downfall of the movement. He expertly portrays the interplay between art and commerce in the film industry, shedding light on the struggles faced by filmmakers as they navigated the studio system and grappled with the pressures to deliver commercially successful films while maintaining their artistic integrity.

"Easy Riders, Raging Bulls" offers an engrossing and balanced perspective on the New Hollywood era. Biskind's engaging storytelling and in-depth analysis make it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of American cinema. The book not only provides a captivating account of a transformative period in film but also sheds light on the lasting impact of the New Hollywood movement on the world of cinema.

What are readers saying?

"Easy Riders, Raging Bulls" by Peter Biskind is a highly acclaimed book that delves into the rise and fall of the New Hollywood era, a groundbreaking period in American filmmaking. The reviews for this book are overwhelmingly positive, praising Biskind's extensive research, engaging storytelling, and captivating exploration of the industry's most prominent figures.

One common theme that emerges from the reviews is Biskind's thorough research, as he interviews countless directors, producers, and actors from the time to provide an insider's perspective. Reviewers appreciate his meticulous attention to detail, as he meticulously documents the behind-the-scenes stories, feuds, and scandals that shaped the era.

Biskind's storytelling abilities also receive high praise in the reviews, with readers finding the narrative gripping and compelling. They describe it as a page-turner that reads like a Hollywood exposé. The book effectively captures the spirit of the era and the rebellious nature of the filmmakers, immersing the reader in the world of the New Hollywood movement.

The portrayal of the industry's most prominent figures is another aspect that reviewers appreciate. Biskind offers a balanced portrayal of celebrated filmmakers as well as those whose careers took a downturn. Readers find his characterizations of directors like Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Dennis Hopper to be insightful and authentic.

Moreover, many reviews mention that "Easy Riders, Raging Bulls" provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and societal changes that influenced the New Hollywood era. Biskind explores the impact of counterculture movements, political unrest, and evolving audience preferences on the film industry, offering a broader perspective on how these factors shaped the movies produced during this time.

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