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The fascinating, behind-the-scenes saga of the making of Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece. This is the richest and most revealing portrait of a movie classic in-the-making ever compiled, from casting decisions to personality clashes, from anecdotes about one of Hollywood's most celebrated--and feared--directors to the truth about why the FBI needed to protect Janet Leigh after the opening of the film. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Fascinating look at Janet Leigh's most remembered film
I enjoyed this book, and I read it in one afternoon. Janet's love and admiration for
"Hitch" and Tony Perkins and for all associated with the film shines through.
She provides much insight into the film and how it was made and how many have been influenced by the film.

If you are a fan of the 1960 classic, this is a must read.

A small piece of trivia: I remember my mother told me that she was pregnant with me when the movie was released, and everyone warned her not to see the movie until much later. I am glad she waited!

About as behind the scenes as you can get
Psycho: Behind The Scenes of the Classic Thriller is a book a lot ofpeople have been waiting a long time for.Janet Leigh provides a detailed,behind-the-scenes look at almost all the aspects of the filming ofHitchcock's masterpiece.She provides stories and anecodotes as well asremembrances of others connected with the picture, including rare wordsfrom John Gavin. It's written in a memoir style, with Ms. Leighdiscussing aspects as they occur to her, which is refreshing.Importantly,she also sets straight many of the rumors and misinformation surroundingthis movie over the years (DID Hitchcock or someone else film the famousshower scene)? A wonderful book on the making of a classic.You'll enjoyit if you're a huge fan of the movie, Ms. Leigh, Hitchcock or justfilmmaking in general. My only complaint of the book is the fact that itweighs in at under 200+ pages, thus I felt the price was a little on thehigh side.Well worth the price in the end, however.

The Encyclopedia Brittanica of"Psycho"
As an admirer of the work of actress Janet Leigh and a fan of the director that was Hitchcock, it only seems fitting that someone with the know-how of Ms. Leigh could create a book that not only is a font of insights into theclassic film that is "Psycho", but also a fitting tribute to thelegend of Hitchcock.

With co-author Christopher Nickens, Ms. Leigh takesyou through the various stages of events that made up the phenomenon of"Psycho". She takes you through the brainstorming of the picture,casting, the brilliant editing and photography that Hitchcock wanted tocreate with his film--everything you could ever want to know or had beencurious about. With thorough research that included interviews with castand crew members, and many photos, some from the personal collection of Ms.Leigh, the reader gets a sense of what creates a masterpiece that hasreached such a cult status. Ironically enough, when the film first cameout, it wasn't the critical success it is now.

For an admirer of the filmitself, the work of Ms. Leigh or Mr. Hitchcock, or anyone with an interestin the art of movie making and what goes into creating a classic, this bookhas it all.

Attention Psycho-philes!
To the massive wealth of writings on Hitchcock and his most influential film, add this slender but invaluable piece by the movie's star, Janet Leigh.By now everyone knows that Leigh hasn't taken a shower since shemet Norman's mother "out on the old highway," but this book isfilled with many other tidbits -- like Hitch refusing to use expensivecostumes for his star, but instead insisting on cheap outfits from adiscount store (to match the character's profile!); and the fact that inthe famous roadside scene with the highway cop, Leigh was never onlocation; her scenes were filmed in the studio and blended seamlessly withlocation footage involving the cop.For Psycho fans, this book is a MUST. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Truthfulness and Good Taste Can Go Hand in Hand
In the preface to this memoir, Janet Leigh discusses meeting a cabdriver who, when told she is working on a book, advises her that he hopes it won't be a trashy "tell-all."While she doesn't veer in the opposite direction, making her reminiscences sugary-sweet, she does follow the gentleman's advice and provides a tasteful rendition of her life.She is honest, but not mean-spirited.That is a very fine line to walk, but she walks it fairly well.

Most people picking this book up will do so because of her years with Tony Curtis, and a large portion of the book is devoted to that era in her life.She also goes over her childhood, first romances and marriages and start of her career, and her insecurities.The book ends with the start of her marriage to Bob Brandt - a marriage that lasted for more than 40 years and only ended with her passing in 2004.Miss Leigh is humorous, gentle, even-handed and classy.It's an excellent look behind the glamour that we see on the red carpet - not all she experienced was pleasant, and she's truthful about that.She lays no blame on any one person for her unhappy moments, and even her most negative comments (about von Sternberg) are shared in an elegant manner.

The only thing I didn't care for, though I understood the reasoning behind it, was Miss Leigh's use of third-person narrative for the first 50 pages of the book.This was the period when she was still Jeanette Morrison, and she doesn't write in the first person until she "becomes" Janet Leigh.Reading a memoir in this way is difficult and, in the end, annoying.If it weren't for that, I would have given There Really Was a Hollywood five stars.

Good
This is a pretty good autobiography.Leigh comes off as a lovely lady--someone you would want as a friend.The times she recounts with Tony Curtis are really sweet -- it seems like she was deeply in love with him.I felt that the book didn't go into enough detail about her films and it ended rather abruptly after her marriage with Curtis fizzled.Would like to hear more about what the later years were like raising the girls with new husband Bob.But still, I enjoyed it.

There really was a Hollywood and Ms. Leigh takes you there!
Recently, I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Leigh, albeit briefly, at a reception and screening of her film, "Touch of Evil".It truly was like meeting Hollywood royalty.All through the course of the evening, people were commenting, "She's so down to earth.She's so charming. She's so real.What a class act".And after reading this book, I cancertainly understand why.

Ms. Leigh's discovery by actress Norma Sheareris the stuff of Hollywood legend.She writes with great enthusiasm,disbelief, self-depreciation, and wonder about her years of guidance andnurturing at MGM, where they taught actors important skills not only tobetter themselves, but also their performance.She is your personal tourguide to all of her film sets and locations, she introduces you to hercelebrity friends, gets you involved in political causes and charitableorganizations, and shares the high's and low's of both her professional andpersonal life.She shows you that in spite of being Janet Leigh, she'sstill a real person.Yet, she handles all situations--good and bad--withgrace and dignity.

Even though this book is out of print, I thank Amazonfor finding it for me to add to my personal library.It brought a"Touch of Hollywood" (the REAL Hollywood) into my home. ... Read more

Product Description
A novel about the pover of secrets in a town built on illusions.

From Janet Leigh, one of Hollywood's most glamorous insiders, comes a novel about the power of secrets in a town built on illusions.

It was a time when Hollywood studios were at their most powerful, when stars were discovered and crafted into national idols and themotion picture dream factory was in full swing. And at the center of it all was one woman -- a woman who knew all the secrets.

Eve Handel had always been encouraged to follow her dreams -- dreams that took her to Hollywood. Hired by Utopia Studios to find talented actors and build them into stars, Eve quickly became one of the most powerful women in an industry run by men. And as she influenced the careers of the studio's stars, Hollywood's elite freely unloaded their secrets -- and scandals -- on Eve.

Now after a sudden illness, Eve lies in a hospital bed. As her life hangs in the balance those closest to her are torn between their concern for Eve and concern for their own reputations. Because Eve Handel kept a journal -- a journal containing truths that could jeopardize careers and ruin lives. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Fun, but not quite Collins
In 1938 Chicago, Eve Handel is engaged to marry Arthur Burdsey who she met four years ago as he was entering Northwestern.However, co-owners of Pad-Dar movie studio Peter Padron and John Darius invite Eve to come out to California to work for them.Though a difficult decision for a single young woman, Eve ends her engagement and journeys to Hollywood.

Over the next three plus decades, Eve evolves into a major player in the movie industry as her ability to find talent is uncanny.Many individuals from different walks of the Hollywood life turn to Eve with their worries and darkest confidences, knowing she will never reveal what she learned and will provide needed solace.However, in 1972 Eve lies in a Los Angeles hospital with what at first appears to be a heart attack.Many of the people she has assisted over the years wish for Eve's speedy recovery for different reasons.Some want it out of love and respect for someone who has always provided a safety net for the industry's workers.Others fear that the rumored journal that Eve allegedly maintained over the years will rock the community if it lands in the wrong hands and secrets are revealed.

This reviewer expected to invoke the fifty-page rule on THE DREAM FACTORY, but instead was pleasantly surprised by a well-written novel that provides entertaining insight into thirty plus years of Hollywood.The story line will remind readers of Jackie Collins' Hollywood Wives novels though much less spicy and titillating.Renowned actress Janet Leigh leaves the audience guessing who the characters are actually based on, but no exposes in this engaging bit of fluff.

Harriet Klausner ... Read more

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Seeking an adventure of Hollywood proportions, Jude Abavas, the son of Basque immigrants and a bellman at the Sun Valley ski resort, meets hot box-office star Wade Colby, with whom he forges a strong friendship. Reprint. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Unsurpassed
I don't know where this book has been for 10 years as I just found it at the library. I didn't even know Janet Leigh wrote novels, but boy can she.Almost everything in this wonderful story of a loving family turns out the way you would like it to.
I had my doubts when I read the synopsis, I thought I don't know-a story about tinsel town?But it rivited me to it.My only disappointment is that it didn't cover more of Penelope and Jude's life together and gave minute detail to all the years before, but it was worth hanging in there. Find a copy and read this for sure.

A story with a happy Hollywood ending
Screen legend Janet Leigh takes you into the world of classic Hollywood with a story that spans many decades.Small town idealism collides with the fragile world of Hollywood to create a wonderful, movingstory.

Basque worker Jude Abavas strikes up a friendship with up andcoming movie idol Wade Colby at a resort in Sun Valley, Idaho.The twoventure back to Hollywood to join forces and create their own destinies,hence the title.

Ms. Leigh writes with the authority of someone who knowswhat it's like to be thrust from a small town into the glamorous world ofHollywood (try to find a copy of her autobio "There Really Was AHollywood").She vividly sets the stages for the characters to cometogether from the immigrant backgrounds to the world of high society andegos.

Amidst some deaths, laughs, loves, and human reflection, Ms. Leighwrites a story in which everything turns out alright and people are givensecond chances and happy endings.

This book was a pleasant surprise - I could not put it down!
Curiosity prompted me to read this book, but I was soon immersed in the plot and interested in the characters.The historical information was facinating, and the people were very real to me.I cared for these people(well, some of them).I felt Jude's desire to "go and do", I waspleased that he was willing to deal with his "mistake" in anhonorable manner; I felt his loss, and then rooted for him when he and Wadebegan in the film industry.I desperately wanted Matthew to come home safefrom the war.I wished for a Mama and Papa like the Abavas.I wasfacinated with the twists and turns of the story - never a dull moment!Iwill not only recommend this to friends who love to read, as I do, but Iknow that I will also re-read this book sometime in the future!Way to go,Janet Leigh!!! ... Read more

Product Description
The World of the Adventist Teenager will give you a concise understanding of what today's teens are thinking about the church and offers practical advice that will help you effectively minister to their needs.
Based on a survey completed by more then 1,500 baptized teenagers, this crucial book reveals eye-opening, startling information about their attititudes and behavior. Discover what they're saying about their parents, their schools, role models, peers, church doctrines and standards. ... Read more

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Since its release in the summer of 1960, "Psycho" has fascinated and frightened millions of film-goers all over the world. The innovative cinematography, the unsettling music score, and the stabbing scene in the shower at the Bates Motel, have established "psycho" as an enduring classic. Filled with Janet Leigh's memories, some well-known and some never-before-published photographs, and new interviews with key players, this book takes a revealing look at one of the most famous films ever made. ... Read more

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Chapters: Bruce Bowen, Ray Allen, Charles Ogletree, Diana Serra Cary, Steven Stayner, Janet Leigh, Marvin Eastman, Tom Cable, Dennis Cardoza, Bernard Berrian, Jeff Denham, Mervyn Fernandez, Rick Oules, John Haney Rogers, Cameron Worrell, Cary Stayner, Gerald Madkins, Joe Carducci, Greg Boyd, Chris Pritchett. Source: Wikipedia. Pages: 113. Not illustrated. Free updates online. Purchase includes a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Excerpt: Le Havre (19931994)Évreux (19941995)Rockford Lightning (19951996, 1997)Besançon (19961997)Miami Heat (1997, 20002001)Boston Celtics (19971999)Philadelphia 76ers (19992000)San Antonio Spurs (20012009) Bruce Bowen Jr. (born June 14, 1971) is a retired American professional basketball player. The 6'7", 200-lb. (200 cm, 91 kg) Bowen played small forward and graduated from Edison High School and Cal State Fullerton. He went on to play for the NBA's Miami Heat, the Boston Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers, the San Antonio Spurs and the CBA's Rockford Lightning, and also played abroad in France. Regarded as one of the best defenders in the NBA, Bowen was elected eight times to the NBA All-Defensive First and Second Teams, and was a member of the Spurs teams that won the NBA championships in 2003, 2005 and 2007. Off the court, Bowen became an informal ambassador for child obesity awareness. Bruce Bowen Jr. was born in Merced, California as son of Bruce Bowen Sr. and Dietra Campbell. Bowen had a problematic childhood growing up in Merced, because, he claims, his mother took drugs and even sold the family TV to feed her habit. Bruce Jr. spent his days playing basketball and eventually became a star in the local West Fresno Edison High School squad. After receiving a scholarship, Bowen played four seasons at Cal State Fullerton, appearing in 101 games, and averaged 11.4 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. After averaging ...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=1745902 ... Read more

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Word count: 1693. ... Read more

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Photoplay Magazine - June 1955 - 54 Years old - Janet Leigh Cover - Collectible Ads - Inside Stories: A Character- But Still Brando(Marlon Brando) - They Kissed and Made Up (Jeff Chandler) / Atom Blonde!(Doris Day) / He's George (George Nader) / What Are angels Made Of? (Pier Angeli) - Plus Much More - Color Photos of Doris Day, George Nader, Pier Angeli, Aldo Ray, Jane Powell, Marlon Brando, Jane Russell - Plus Much More - VG Condition - Rare Issue - Collectible ... Read more

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MAGAZINE, JULY 1952 , 1st Edition, NF-/VG, MAGAZINE, Light wear rub scuff tiny chips edges, 6 1/2 X 10 3/4 ... Read more

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JANET LEIGH cover feature story ... Read more

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Chapters: People From Merced, California, Bruce Bowen, Ray Allen, Charles Ogletree, Diana Serra Cary, Steven Stayner, Janet Leigh, Marvin Eastman, Tom Cable, Dennis Cardoza, Bernard Berrian, Jeff Denham, Mervyn Fernandez, Rick Oules, John Haney Rogers, Cameron Worrell, Cary Stayner, Merced Sun-Star, Gerald Madkins, Joe Carducci, Greg Boyd, Chris Pritchett, Leggett House (Merced, California), Merced County Times. Source: Wikipedia. Pages: 128. Not illustrated. Free updates online. Purchase includes a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Excerpt: Le Havre (19931994)Évreux (19941995)Rockford Lightning (19951996, 1997)Besançon (19961997)Miami Heat (1997, 20002001)Boston Celtics (19971999)Philadelphia 76ers (19992000)San Antonio Spurs (20012009) Bruce Bowen Jr. (born June 14, 1971) is a retired American professional basketball player. The 6'7", 200-lb. (200 cm, 91 kg) Bowen played small forward and graduated from Edison High School and Cal State Fullerton. He went on to play for the NBA's Miami Heat, the Boston Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers, the San Antonio Spurs and the CBA's Rockford Lightning, and also played abroad in France. Regarded as one of the best defenders in the NBA, Bowen was elected eight times to the NBA All-Defensive First and Second Teams, and was a member of the Spurs teams that won the NBA championships in 2003, 2005 and 2007. Off the court, Bowen became an informal ambassador for child obesity awareness. Bruce Bowen Jr. was born in Merced, California as son of Bruce Bowen Sr. and Dietra Campbell. Bowen had a problematic childhood growing up in Merced, because, he claims, his mother took drugs and even sold the family TV to feed her habit. Bruce Jr. spent his days playing basketball and eventually became a star in the local West Fresno Edison High School squad. After receiving a scholarship, Bowen played four seasons at Cal Sta...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=1745902 ... Read more

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Hand signed Photo from Janet Leigh (born Jeanette Helen Morrison; July 6, 1927October 3, 2004) was an American actress. Her most famous role was in Alfred Hitchcock's classic Psycho, for which she received a Golden Globe and was nominated for an Academy Award. ... Read more