From Publishers Weekly
Chevalier (1888-1972) was arguably the most famous French entertainer of all time. He got his big break in show business when Mistinguett, a leading music-hall star of the day, chose him as her stage--and bed--partner at the Folies-Bergere. Chevalier went on to appear in several Hollywood musicals, and he toured Europe, Britain and America in a one-man show. Behr vividly conveys the remarkable stage presence, captivating charm and elegance of this much-beloved showman. His affection for Chevalier is evident throughout this richly textured biography; however, his unblinking depiction of the not-so-charming fellow under the stage makeup will sadden his admirers. But in response to the widespread accusations of collaboration with the Nazis, Behr convincingly argues that Chevalier was guilty of naivete but not of treason. Photos.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Maurice Chevalier was much different from his carefree, insouciant public persona. He had lifelong feelings of inadequacy, was haunted by fear of poverty long after he became wealthy, and, despite his famed love songs, was not able to sustain romantic relationships. Journalist/filmmaker Behr recounts Chevalier's life in considerable (and sometimes pedestrian) detail but reveals comparatively little that is not discussed in earlier biographies like Michael Freedland's lively Maurice Chevalier ( LJ 10/15/81. o.p.) and James Harding's somewhat briefer Maurice Chevalier (Secker & Warburg, 1982. o.p.). The singer's own multivolume autobiography, abridged as With Love ( LJ 9/15/60. o.p.), is unreliable in many areas. Recommended for inclusive cinema collections.
- Roy Liebman, California State Univ. Lib., Los Angeles
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
- Roy Liebman, California State Univ. Lib., Los Angeles
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
