WNYC’s Sara Fishko has produced a terrific audio piece about William Wyler and two of his best films — “Dodsworth” and “The Best Years of Our Lives” — both of which are playing among the 25 being screened at the Quad through Dec. 11. Listen:
“Jan Herman’s biography of William Wyler is a classic of the genre, paying equal attention to Wyler’s life and his films, and uncovering the rich interweave between the two. Herman invariably rewards readers with his depth of insight, balance of treatment, and first-class colloquial and elegant prose — this book is a friend.” — Ann Douglas (author Terrible Honesty, The Feminization of American Culture, and Parr Professor Emerita of English and Comparative Literature, Columbia University)
“An excellent biography.” — Gore Vidal
“Its sheer drive keeps one stuck to the pages. Conviction comes through strongly in clear writing and honest weighing of Wyler’s works. He’s no saint-maker. Herman limns crisply throughout and a rounded, great-hearted Wyler steps forth who grips the reader’s sympathies with both hands.” — David Newlove, The Hollywood Reporter
“I read ‘A Talent for Trouble’ almost without pause. That gives you some idea of how fascinating I found it. ” — Kevin Brownlow (author David Lean, The Parade’s Gone By)
“A model Hollywood biography: Cogent, to the point, candid, briskly written and never dull.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Places Wyler once and for all where he belongs as a major figure in the American cinematic canon.” — Martin Scorsese
“A fascinating look at the inner workings of an age . . . The tale of an American artist in the vortex of great political and social changes. This is an enduring biography.” — Andrei Codrescu
“[A] thorough loving study . . . reliable judgments and comprehensiveness . . . Mr. Herman’s exhaustive research has paid off in a volume that will reward not only scholars but fans as well.” — Diane Jacobs, The New York Times Book Review
“Richly satisfying . . . ” — Publishers Weekly
“Highly recommended.” — Library Journal
“Finally gives Wyler the book he deserves.” — Kenneth Turan (film critic for the Los Angeles Times)
WITH APOLOGIES FOR MY SELF-PROMOTION. — Jan Herman, Straight Up
Thanks for the good news about the Wyler celebration at the Quad. And for the Fishko take on Dodsworth. All that was missing in her audio was the voice of the director’s acclaimed biographer. But of course that’s available in the bio.