Hilarious and insightful
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I just got this book recently after seeing Richard E Grant interviewed on TV (in NZ). He came across so well in the interview, funny, and insightful, and rather cute too... Hearing that he's a writer I decided to check out his books. Within two pages I was laughing out loud, and then a little further on I had tears in my eyes (no not from laughing, but from a reading his account of the birth and death of his first child).
Grant has an interesting way of writing - stream of consciousness, and it really works well, taking the reader along for the ride. At a quick glance the writing is similar in a way to Tom Wolfe (father of New Journalism) who is well known for writing in that stream of consciousness vein. But whereas Tom Wolfe's writing comes across as purely observational - there's no emotion, he's just retelling what he sees... Grant's writing is more personal, he has great observational strengths, but it's his insight, perceptions and intelligence that really jumps out from this book.
I love the book, and can't wait to get my hands on The Wah Wah Diaries, and also his novel, By Design.
Totally agree with other comments on this book - Grant's style just makes it feel like a conversation between him and the reader, and as one reviewer said: "leaves the reader aching to meet Grant in person to continue the dialogue".
And completely feel the same as the other reviewer who said that finishing the book felt like losing a best friend - I so didn't want to finish reading the book - I wanted to continue the conversation - I was enjoying it so much.
Totally worth getting hold of this book.
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Entertaining and informative
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This guy can write as well as act. He gives a great behind-the-scenes look at the film industry and writes amusingly about his own life. I changed my opinion of Richard E Grant after reading this.One of the best showbiz autobiogs I have ever read.
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witty, heart-wrenching, gossipy, warm and self-deprecating
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This is a fantastic memoir - witty, heart-wrenching, gossipy, warm and self-deprecating. Grant has done a fabulous job of revealing the underbelly of Hollywood by keeping enough distance to be able to see how ludicrous it is. He must be one of the most sane film stars ever. It doesn't matter if you're not a fan of Richard E.Grant's acting or you haven't heard of him - this is the story of what it's like to rub shoulders with the Hollywood A list after years of struggling to get parts. I think this review quote sums it up best: "[Grant] retains all the enthusiasm of an innocent abroad enjoying the holiday of a lifetime-and willing to invite the reader along for the ride." Daily Mail
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A fine book about the life of an actor
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The opening section concerning the filming of Withnail and I is an absolute highlight and worth the cover price only. The book fills up with other worthwhile projects, his friendship with Steve Martin is a tad worrying and he does come over as a bit of a luvvy, but Ill always remember him as Withnail.
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Brillant!
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If you've even wondered how it really feels to go to Hollywood and meet the faces behind the names then read this book. Although Richard is perceived as an Engish actor no Englishman could have written a book as honest and heart-touching as this one. However, the humour and off-beat sense of irony which flows through the book are definately British. Finishing this book was like losing a best friend.
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