Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way (Paperback)

~ (Author) "I read the e-mail out loud and wrinkled my nose when I got to the "another book of this type" part..." (more)
Key Phrases: Bruce Campbell, Mike Nichols, Let's Make Love (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Satire and sharp one-liners are the engines powering low-budget movie hero Campbell's (If Chins Could Kill) first autobiographical novel, a funny, breezy, high-camp affair. After dispensing B-movie witticisms on romance and navigating love scenes, Sci-Fi channel schlock film actor "Bruce Campbell" is unexpectedly offered the A-list role of a "wise-cracking doorman" and "emotional lynchpin" in the new Mike Nichols romantic comedy Let's Make Love, starring Richard Gere and Renee Zellweger. After getting fully immersed in calamitous role research at the Waldorf-Astoria, Campbell postures (and annoys) his way through the first read-through with indifferent cast members, runs lines with a timid Gere, crassly advises Zellweger on how to accentuate her bust line, dishes ex-husbands with Liz Taylor and berates the film's director of photography, Oscar-winning Vilmos Zsigmond (whose name Campbell spells Sigmund). After a Secret Service ambush and more movie set mayhem, Campbell's A-List luck finally runs out. But not even a bumbling S.W.A.T. team can stop this determined day player from getting his due. Campbell knows of what he writes, and this endless barrage of extreme silliness obviously spoofs (and quite possibly mirrors) a frenzied acting career made up of equal parts exasperation and hilarity.
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Product Description

“This approach generates some of the most witty showbiz lunacy since This Is Spinal Tap.”
---Sacramento News & Review

 

What you’re reading right now is known as the “flap copy.” This is where the 72,444 words of my latest book are cooked down to fit this space.  But how does one do that? Do you reveal pivotal plot points like the one at the end of the book where the little girl on crutches points an accusing finger and shouts, “The killer is Mr. Potter”?
I have too much respect for you as an attention-deficient consumer to attempt such an obvious ruse. But let’s not play games here. You picked up the book already, so you either:
A.  Know who I am
B.   Liked the cool smoking jacket I’m wearing on the cover
C.   Have just discovered that the bookstore restroom is out of toilet paper 
Is it a sequel to my autobiography If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor?  Sadly, no, which made it much harder to write. According to my publisher, I haven't “done” enough since 2001 to warrant another memoir.
Is it an “autobiographical novel”? Yes. I’m the lead character in the story, and I’m a real person, and everything in the book actually happened, except for the stuff that didn’t.
The action revolves around my preparations for a pivotal role in the A-list relationship film Let’s Make Love!  But my Homeric attempt to break through the glass ceiling of B-grade genre fare is hampered by a vengeful studio executive and a production that becomes infected by something called the “B movie virus,” symptoms of which include excessive use of cheesy special effects, slapstick, and projectile vomiting.
From a violent fistfight with a Buddhist to a life-altering stint in federal prison, this novel has it all. And if the 72,444 words are too time-consuming, there are lots and lots of cool graphics.
Regards,
Bruce “Don’t Call Me Ash” Campbell

 

Praise for Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way
 
“It’s a great, goofy what-if.”
---Entertainment Weekly
 
“Ultimately, Make Love is a Bruce Campbell novel, starring Bruce Campbell, written for Bruce Campbell fans for whom Bruce Campbell can do no wrong. They’ll no doubt find Campbell’s latest endeavor nothing short of---to quote one of his most famous characters---groovy.”
---The Onion
 
“One of the most delightfully deranged experiences you’ll have reading this year.  Hail to the king, baby.”
---Rue Morgue

 

 

See all Editorial Reviews

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Product Details Paperback: 368 pages Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin (August 22, 2006) Language: English ISBN-10: 031231261X ISBN-13: 978-0312312619 Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1 inches Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (74 customer reviews) Amazon.com Sales Rank: #365,187 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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First Sentence:
I read the e-mail out loud and wrinkled my nose when I got to the "another book of this type" part. Read the first page

Key Phrases - Capitalized Phrases (CAPs): (learn more)
Bruce Campbell, Mike Nichols, Let's Make Love, Robert Evans, Richard Gere, New York, Rob Stern, Army of Darkness, Agent Grunow, Evil Dead, Lanny Sticks, Los Angeles, Elizabeth Taylor, Secret Service, Death of the Dead, Las Vegas, Lester Shankwater, Ohio State, Colin Powell, Dash Darwin, Hubert Hightower, Jack Nicholson, Jeff Gordon, Sam Raimi, Charles Butler

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Citations (learn more)

This book cites 3 books:

• Secret Service (Issues Series) by Duncan Campbell on 4 pages
• Address Book (Little Scribbles) by Little Scribbles in Front Matter
• Jack Nicholson by Nancy Campbell on page 297

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Books on Related Topics (learn more)

Time Out Film Guide, 14th Edition, 2006 by John Pym

Discusses:

• maniac cop
• Bruce Campbell
• Mike Nichols

Time Out Film Guide, 13th Edition by John Pym

Discusses:

• maniac cop
• Bruce Campbell
• Mike Nichols

Time Out Film Guide, 14th Edition, 2006 by John Pym Discusses: maniac cop Bruce Campbell Mike Nichols Time Out Film Guide, 13th Edition by John Pym Discusses: maniac cop Bruce Campbell Mike Nichols Loading...

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What Do Customers Ultimately Buy After Viewing This Item?

	54% buy the item featured on this page: Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way 4.1 out of 5 stars (74) $10.17
	19% buy If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor 4.8 out of 5 stars (219) $10.17

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Customer Reviews

74 Reviews 5 star:  (35) 4 star:  (23) 3 star:  (8) 2 star:  (5) 1 star:  (3)           Average Customer Review 4.1 out of 5 stars (74 customer reviews)		Share your thoughts with other customers:
Most Helpful Customer Reviews 56 of 58 people found the following review helpful: 4.0 out of 5 stars Not brilliant, but a lot of fun, August 9, 2005 By  Blake Petit "Novelist, Comixtreme.com columni... (Ama, Louisiana United States) - See all my reviews (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)       This review is from: Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way (Hardcover) Actor Bruce Campbell decided to try his hand at fiction for his second book, but even then, he couldn't help from letting the "real world" (such as it is) intrude. The book is about Campbell, himself, getting cast in a major role (the kind that gets "best supporting actor" Oscars) in a new Richard Gere/Renee Zellweger romantic comedy. But Campbell's B-movie roots pervade and begin to "infect" the set... but is it really his fault? This is a weird little book. Most of the story concerns Campbell travelling the country, meeting with one bizarre "expert" after another to research his role as Foyl, the all-knowing relationship guru doorman. As the book progresses, though, a clear villain emerges and Campbell finds himself -- again -- battling the forces of evil. The only real problem with the book is that the villain's motivation, and the major conflict, are introduced rather late in the story, along with a couple of fairly important characters who should have been brought in earlier. However, as complaints go, that's not a big one. The book isn't intended to be a literary masterpiece -- it's a fun little satire that pokes fun at the Hollywood system from someone who's a small fish in that pond, but a big fish in the outside world of cult cinema. Campbell is a clever, witty guy and he turns out a clever, witty book, and that's what I really wanted out of this. 33 of 35 people found the following review helpful: 5.0 out of 5 stars I would expect this book from Campbell, January 3, 2006 By  Michael Bond (Shawnee, OK United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)    This review is from: Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way (Hardcover) Bruce Campbell is the kind of guy you either love or hate, so I won't waste your time. If you already hate him, avoid this book like a B-Movie plague, for the book is cut from the same material. (pause) OK. Now that we have lost the anti-Campbell faction let's take a look at "Make Love* the Bruce Campbell way". This novel is a hoot. It is totally silly. From the cover, one should understand that the entire book is tongue-in-cheek. In it we see Bruce preparing for and acting in a movie flop called "Let's Make Love!" In the process, he joins a Southern Gentlemen's Club, fights (and looses) a duel, teaches Richard Gere how to pick up women, and while disguised as someone else, agrees to produce a movie with Jack Nicholson. There is mystery and plenty of action toward the end with a rather surprising ending. He flashes back on his incredible body of work, especially the Army of Darkness and Evil Dead movies. Bruce is self-deprecating and seems to welcome and enjoy his role in life as a successful "B" movie star. The book is funny, light and witty. It has plenty of illustrations and photos. It is the kind of book one would expect from Bruce Campbell. 14 of 14 people found the following review helpful: 5.0 out of 5 stars Great fun, just don't call him Ash!!!, May 30, 2005 By  Justin Addison "Justin Addison" (Fayette, MO USA) - See all my reviews This review is from: Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way (Hardcover) This is a great new book from Bruce "Don't Call Me Ash" Campbell, star of the Evil Dead films. This is quite different from his first title, "If Chins Could Kill, Confessions of a 'B' Movie Actor." Campbell's great sense of humor lifts this title above the average Hollywood trash. Plus, he played Ash, so ya gota love him. While "Chins" was autobiographical, "Make Love" picks up where his first tome left off - present, day real life. "Make Love" starts in real life, but quickly takes a hilarious, fictional detour through the life of an "A" movie actor. It reads very much like the first book. It is in the first person, but nothing in MLTBCW actually happened. Bruce gets a part in a move with Richard (A**BAG) Gere and Rene Zellweger (sp?). He makes all sorts of very funny faux pas while researching the role (including an old-fashioned southern duel of all things). All the great comedy is there, and Campbell flashes back to many of his other films and TV shows, all within a fictional context. A must read for any BC fan, especially if you liked "Chins." Campbell's Hollywood insight and humorous situations (and funny photos and graphics) make this a page-turner from start to finish.		Ad feedback   Most Recent Customer Reviews 5.0 out of 5 stars Make Love the Bruce Cambell Way This book is fantastic. Not only is it a good read for fans of BC but for anyone who has ever had an interest in the film making industry. Read more Published 4 months ago by T. J. Benham 5.0 out of 5 stars make love the bruce campbell way it came in an orderly time and was in great condition. i'll probably order another one , different title sometime soon. Published 6 months ago by virginia hueter 3.0 out of 5 stars It's OK but not as good as his first book. I read Bruce Campbell's first book and it was an interesting and very funny read. So I knew he had a second book out and thought that would be interesting too. Read more Published 6 months ago by toothwarriorprincess 5.0 out of 5 stars Very funny, quick read This is very funny stuff. I intend to read "Chins" next, but stumbled upon this book first. The story is so over the top that it must be fiction, but how much exactly one never... Read more Published 8 months ago by euonymous 4.0 out of 5 stars good stuff Quite funny, easy to read, and to the point. I never imagined Richard Gere doing ninja kicks. thumbs up Published 9 months ago by D. Greene 4.0 out of 5 stars Bruce Campbell Fans Looking For Fun Fiction If you're a fan of Bruce and his method of storytelling from his first book, "If Chins Could Kill...", then his fiction based on himself shouldn't disappoint. Read more Published 10 months ago by J. Spence 4.0 out of 5 stars A book with some class. Well, the title of the review may be a tad misleading. In reality, this is a fun, entertaining look at the inner workings of Hollywood by a B-level superstar. Read more Published 10 months ago by Douglas T. Gerdes 4.0 out of 5 stars Awesome I got this for my brother in law for his birthday, if you are a fan then this book is for you. Published 10 months ago by Sheri Radio 5.0 out of 5 stars LOTS of Fun! Hey, if you lOVE Bruce, gotta read this book. Great sense of humor, whimsy, bizarre and sweet stories. Thanks Bruce!!!! Published 12 months ago by MargieMarge 5.0 out of 5 stars great price and perfect condition this was a gift for my boyfriend who loves Bruce Campbell and he has no complaints, I'm sure I'll be buying more from Amazon in the future. Published 12 months ago by B. Holifield Search Customer Reviews Only search this product's reviews

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Product Details

• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin (August 22, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 031231261X
• ISBN-13: 978-0312312619
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (74 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #365,187 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

56 of 58 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Not brilliant, but a lot of fun, August 9, 2005

By	Blake Petit "Novelist, Comixtreme.com columni... (Ama, Louisiana United States) - See all my reviews (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way (Hardcover)

Actor Bruce Campbell decided to try his hand at fiction for his second book, but even then, he couldn't help from letting the "real world" (such as it is) intrude. The book is about Campbell, himself, getting cast in a major role (the kind that gets "best supporting actor" Oscars) in a new Richard Gere/Renee Zellweger romantic comedy. But Campbell's B-movie roots pervade and begin to "infect" the set... but is it really his fault?

This is a weird little book. Most of the story concerns Campbell travelling the country, meeting with one bizarre "expert" after another to research his role as Foyl, the all-knowing relationship guru doorman. As the book progresses, though, a clear villain emerges and Campbell finds himself -- again -- battling the forces of evil. The only real problem with the book is that the villain's motivation, and the major conflict, are introduced rather late in the story, along with a couple of fairly important characters who should have been brought in earlier.

However, as complaints go, that's not a big one. The book isn't intended to be a literary masterpiece -- it's a fun little satire that pokes fun at the Hollywood system from someone who's a small fish in that pond, but a big fish in the outside world of cult cinema. Campbell is a clever, witty guy and he turns out a clever, witty book, and that's what I really wanted out of this.

33 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I would expect this book from Campbell, January 3, 2006

By	Michael Bond (Shawnee, OK United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way (Hardcover)

Bruce Campbell is the kind of guy you either love or hate, so I won't waste your time. If you already hate him, avoid this book like a B-Movie plague, for the book is cut from the same material.

(pause)

OK. Now that we have lost the anti-Campbell faction let's take a look at "Make Love* the Bruce Campbell way". This novel is a hoot. It is totally silly. From the cover, one should understand that the entire book is tongue-in-cheek. In it we see Bruce preparing for and acting in a movie flop called "Let's Make Love!" In the process, he joins a Southern Gentlemen's Club, fights (and looses) a duel, teaches Richard Gere how to pick up women, and while disguised as someone else, agrees to produce a movie with Jack Nicholson. There is mystery and plenty of action toward the end with a rather surprising ending.

He flashes back on his incredible body of work, especially the Army of Darkness and Evil Dead movies. Bruce is self-deprecating and seems to welcome and enjoy his role in life as a successful "B" movie star. The book is funny, light and witty. It has plenty of illustrations and photos.

It is the kind of book one would expect from Bruce Campbell.

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great fun, just don't call him Ash!!!, May 30, 2005

By	Justin Addison "Justin Addison" (Fayette, MO USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way (Hardcover)

This is a great new book from Bruce "Don't Call Me Ash" Campbell, star of the Evil Dead films. This is quite different from his first title, "If Chins Could Kill, Confessions of a 'B' Movie Actor." Campbell's great sense of humor lifts this title above the average Hollywood trash. Plus, he played Ash, so ya gota love him.
While "Chins" was autobiographical, "Make Love" picks up where his first tome left off - present, day real life. "Make Love" starts in real life, but quickly takes a hilarious, fictional detour through the life of an "A" movie actor. It reads very much like the first book. It is in the first person, but nothing in MLTBCW actually happened. Bruce gets a part in a move with Richard (A**BAG) Gere and Rene Zellweger (sp?). He makes all sorts of very funny faux pas while researching the role (including an old-fashioned southern duel of all things). All the great comedy is there, and Campbell flashes back to many of his other films and TV shows, all within a fictional context.
A must read for any BC fan, especially if you liked "Chins." Campbell's Hollywood insight and humorous situations (and funny photos and graphics) make this a page-turner from start to finish.