Charles McGraw - by Alan K Rode (Paperback)

About the Book

The iconic actor Charles McGraw appeared in over 140 roles on films and television, including the classic noir pictures The Killers (1946) and The Narrow Margin (1952). Whether portraying tough cops or sadistic killers, McGraw brought a unique authenticity to the screen.

Book Synopsis

The iconic actor Charles McGraw appeared in over 140 roles on films and television, including the classic noir pictures The Killers (1946) and The Narrow Margin (1952). Whether portraying tough cops or sadistic killers, McGraw brought a unique authenticity to the screen.

Emphasizing his impact on the film noir style, this comprehensive biography examines McGraw's lengthy career against the backdrop of a changing Hollywood. Through numerous personal interviews with his surviving intimates, close acquaintances and co-workers, his tumultuous personal life is detailed from his earliest days to his bizarre, accidental death. Also included are an extensive critical filmography of McGraw's feature film career, a complete list of television appearances and previously unpublished film stills and personal photos.

Review Quotes

"finally in softcover. Few books are more deserving. Rode is one of our best film historians, and this biography is sharp, well-researched, and thoroughly entertaining. Rode has written an excellent book, incorporating perceptive comments and good interviews to uncover the man and his work...terrific, fascinating...immensely readable...absolutely riveting...highly recommend this book...well-written...first-rate...sensational...a good read"-Classic Images; "amazing detail"-Canyon News; "a spellbinding account of the great noir heavy...and a must-have addition to all film-noir libraries. Deft biography and overall wild tale."-James Ellroy; "Very little, if anything, seems to be left out...an incredible history lesson for movie enthusiasts. The only thing that confuses us is how Rode managed to fit such a wealth of information in just under 230 pages. We chalk it up to great writing!"-Gary Sweeney, The Midnight Palace; "A colorful and illuminating study of not only an actor's saga, but Hollywood's evolution."-Michael Fox, SF 360; "Not only a detailed, well-researched portrait of Charles McGraw; but, a veritable who's-who of Hollywood film noir history, including nuanced sketches of such seminal personalities as Mark Hellinger, Robert Siodmok, Bryan Foy, Johnny Rosselli, Reed Hadley, Sidney Boehm, Crane Wilbur, Walter Wanger, Daniel Mainwaring, Earl Felton, Dick Fleischer-the list goes on and on."-Michael Guillen, The Evening Class.

About the Author

Film historian and journalist Alan K. Rode is a director of the Film Noir Foundation (www.filmnoirfoundation.com). He lives in Los Angeles.