I agree with everything Mr Winner says
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Unlike most people writing those letters that appear in Michael Winner's restaurant column in the Sunday Times, I think he is simply a straightforward and honest person who says what he thinks (most of those wimps forever put up with bad service and manners).
If you are interested in movies, then this is, as David Nivens book, a great account of what it's like to be in the business. Winner is a producer / director. I could have done with more detail of how he makes a movie as I know what it's like to try and get more money when trying to finish a project! His approach to film making is different from most, if you read what Charles Bronson and others say about him. I have promised to send my children copies of this book, as there is so much to learn from life. And as far as his stealing and lying is concerned, the reviewer above who thought it wrong, was taught correctly and shouldn't change his ways! Mr Winner did not become a millionaire by stealing. He became a millionaire through his ability to be direct and being very good at his job. Those he worked with obviously appreciated that.
Peter Hobday
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All-time favourite autobiography
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This is one of my all-time favourite autobiographies because it is highly entertaining and interesting and wonderfully humorous. Michael Winner has worked with some of the all-time famous and powerful actors and actresses global.
Being a top movie director he gets to know these people quite intimately because he works with them on a day to day basis over periods of time during filmmaking and they often became his personal friends, in many cases for life. So you actually get his personal opinion of the true character of the likes of Charles Bronson, Marlon Brando, Robert Mitchum, Burt Lancaster, Oliver Reed are many more. There are some hilarious behind the scenes moments during filmmaking this book is an absolute must on entertainment and interest value.
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a lesson in life
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I am a quarter of the way through Mr Winner's book, and so far I have learned one very important lesson even at this late stage of my life, and it is this: My parents brought me up telling me that it was wrong to lie, cheat and thieve, and that I would never get anywhere in life if I did. Mr Winner's parents most certainly didn't teach him this. I have not prospered in life, it has to be said. Mr Winner has prospered exceedingly. Therefore I have to say that my parents were wrong, and I would like to thank Mr Winner for enabling me to see the light in this respect. Thank-you, Mr Winner. I certainly intend finishing your book. Who knows what else I might learn!
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A REALLY FASCINATING BOOK (EVEN IF YOU'RE NOT A MOVIE FAN!)
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I read this entire book on a transatlantic flight and, although it deprived me of sleep, I read it from cover to cover during the flight! It is well written and, rather than being the usual "self-congratulatory" type of autobiography, it gives a great insight into movies with loads of anecdotes about the actors, producers, directors and film crews who made them (with hardly a bad word about any of them). Even if you're not a dedicated movie addict (which I am not - I have only seen 4 of the films made by Mr. Winner), the book is not a technical description of movie making and you will find this a very entertaining read. In short, a well told and often hilarious story of a fascinating life, written with great humour - well worth reading.
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