This is a great, and short autobiography: I breezed through it in two days. Though Wilder could have dedicated more time to his early acting days, the reader should be satisfied with the brief insight into Wilder’s methodology. I’d no idea Wilder had worked with Lee Strasberg, or that he was one of only two actors accepted into the infamous Actor’s Studio one year. Strangely enough, the judging panel back then was X-Factor style. Wilder got two Yeses, and one No. The rejection came from Strasberg himself.
Wilder went on to perform on Broadway, work with Mel Brooks, and write great films as well as put in iconic performances. Wilder’s life is one that he celebrates, yet is marked with tragedy. It’s interesting to see how he explains his choices – and how he continually strives for a creative life.
Following two divorces, the death of a wife and his own battle with cancer, it’s amazing to think that the man is still standing – still loving – still living a life within art.
Our doubts are traitors,and make us lose the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt.
‘Measure for Measure’, Act 1 scene 4