Customer Reviews

Valentino: The First Superstar

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

 

 

Noel Botham co-authored an earlier bio in 1975-76, this book is very much a rehash of the same material, much of it suspect. No index and notes make verification of the facts and sources difficult. Not worth hanging on to. My advice is to wait for the upcoming biography authored by Emily Leider.

If you're a romantic, in love with the mysterious man that has kept women (and some men) spellbound for decades, read on. If you're looking for a scholarly examination of Valentino's life and work, this isn't the book for you.

`Valentino: The First Superstar' is a lightweight journey through the life of Rudolph Valentino, of whom too few decent books have been written. The author frames the bare details in theatrical vignettes, complete with all dialogue, giving a sense of drama but not necessarily of veracity. Such an approach is a suspect one; by putting words in the mouths of his `characters', the author sculpts history to his own liking. The overall impression is that of an afternoon television movie.

The lack of an index and the limited bibliography confirms the book as one of amateur, not professional interest. However, if you know nothing of Valentino beyond his name and reputation, this might be a good place to begin.

By putting words into the mouths of people who were part of Rudolph Valentino's life, the author has created a fictionalized bio seemingly shaped by his own projections and assumptions. After reading Emily Leider's carefully researched biography of Valentino, I find this book a waste of time.

Book arrived as described. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Love old Hollywood history, both people and places. Book was in good shape. Many thanks.

Valentino: First Superstar is the story of the Latin lover who became the silver screen's first and greatest sex symbol represents more than twenty years of research and travel on the part of author Botham, who reveals missing answers about the star's brief but memorable life. Interviews with some of the costars and personalities of Valentino's time makes for a well-rounded biography.