Customer Reviews

At the Center of the Frame: Leading Ladies of the Twenties and Thirties

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book, as well as Drew's "Speaking of Silents", is a must-read for anyone interested in silent film history and the transition to sound. Not only does it document changes within the film industry, but it also documents these actresses' stories--in their own voices. I can't recommend it highly enough!

I was surprised that I didn't really enjoy this book especially since I love the era and am a big fan of at least three of these ladies (Billie Dove, Anita Page, Claire Trevor). The big problem for me is that the "interview" chapters are all written in "as told to" format and makes the ladies all sound like one voice. Even so, it's easy to tell which stars Drew was partial to and which he didn't particularly like. The photographs are great but so many are reproduced tiny, about 2x2. The book is printed on beautiful paper stock though and we get so few books these days on classic Hollywood (especially concerning the lesser lights) you might still want to check this one out.

This book was better than I expected. If one enjoys reading about the early Hollywood stars this book is a must. Well written, plenty of photos and the in-dept interviews are a treat to read. Recommended!!!!!

I have thoroughly enjoyed this book, and it appears to be very true to character. I can at least state this to be true about Anita Page, as she is my aunt. It is a very fun read!