"Round Up the Usual Suspects: The Making of Casablanca" by Aljean Harmetz provides a captivating and thorough account of the creation of one of Hollywood's most famous films. Harmetz takes readers on a behind-the-scenes journey, exploring the intricate details of the film's production, casting, and the challenges faced by the cast and crew.
The book begins by delving into the origins of the screenplay, tracing its evolution from an unproduced play to a script that would eventually become a cinematic masterpiece. Harmetz sheds light on the creative process of the screenwriters, highlighting the collaborative effort and the numerous revisions that took place along the way.
Furthermore, Harmetz offers valuable insights into the casting decisions of "Casablanca," revealing the various factors that influenced the selection of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman as the lead actors. She explores the relationships between the actors and the director, providing a deeper understanding of how these dynamics shaped the performances and the overall atmosphere of the film.
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Additionally, "Round Up the Usual Suspects" tackles the production challenges faced by the filmmakers. From the restrictions imposed by the Hays Code to the limitations of the studio system, Harmetz discusses the obstacles that the team encountered during the filming process and how they ultimately overcame them, resulting in the creation of a timeless classic.
Overall, Aljean Harmetz's "Round Up the Usual Suspects: The Making of Casablanca" takes readers on an in-depth and fascinating journey into the world behind one of cinema's greatest films. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Harmetz brings to life the challenges, triumphs, and creative choices that went into the making of this beloved movie.
What are readers saying?
"Round Up the Usual Suspects" by Aljean Harmetz has received a variety of reviews from readers. Many readers appreciated the author's extensive research and insightful analysis of the iconic film "Casablanca." They found Harmetz's ability to uncover lesser-known details and present them in an engaging manner to be commendable. The book's exploration of the historical context and behind-the-scenes anecdotes about the production of "Casablanca" was particularly well-received, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the film.
However, there were some readers who expressed disappointment with the writing style and organization of the book. They felt that it lacked focus and was poorly organized, causing the narrative to feel disjointed and meandering at times. Some also found the prose to be dry and academic, lacking the storytelling quality they were expecting from a book about such a beloved movie.
A common critique among readers was the book's emphasis on peripheral aspects of "Casablanca" rather than the film itself. While many appreciated the historical and cultural context provided, some felt that Harmetz dedicated too much time to external elements instead of delving deeper into the impact and legacy of the film itself.
Despite these criticisms, the majority of readers agreed that "Round Up the Usual Suspects" is a worthwhile read for fans of "Casablanca" or anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects of classic Hollywood. It may not appeal to those seeking a more narrative-driven account, but it does offer a comprehensive exploration and analysis of the cultural and historical context surrounding the making of the film.