A Woman at War: Marlene Dietrich Remembered (Painted Turtle Book) - Hardcover

Riva, J. David (Ed.)

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0814332498 ISBN 13: 9780814332498

Publisher: Painted Turtle, 2006

Synopsis

Marlene Dietrich's conflicted personal journey from Berliner to American soldier during World War II is as intense as any role she played on-screen and perhaps accounts for her ability to inspire so many through drama and song. In this collection of interviews and photographs, the many facets of Dietrich's personality and of her life during World War II are recounted by those whose lives she touched, including Rosemary Clooney, Burt Bacharach, Cher, Hildegard Knef, and Maria Riva. Together with extensive historical documentation, these interviews help readers understand Dietrich's inner struggles and private motivation as well as her political and social legacy.

Each interview affords the reader a "mini-documentary" of the time period when that individual first came into contact with the actress. From the front lines of battle to concert halls, from film studios to Dietrich's kitchen, we see her in many environments and gain a perspective on her character, political views, and taste for nonconformity. In stories recounted by American GI's, studio heads, Nazi hunters, and fellow entertainers she publicly decries Nazism, helps a military journalist's career, sings a German lullaby for an Israeli audience, and cooks a steak for a young songwriter. Many photos are included to bring the interviews to life.

A Woman at War makes for not only an in-depth experience of Dietrich's turbulent life and times but also for a fascinating journey into the lives of those whom she encountered along the way, many in the midst of world conflict, love affairs, and political intrigue.

About this title

Book Description

An unprecedented look at the life of cultural icon Marlene Dietrich that brings together firsthand accounts, remembrances, and anecdotes with pictorial and historical documentation.

From the Back Cover

"There was no one quite like Marlene Dietrich, and no book I've seen has done a more fascinating job in covering her in such exquisite, well-rounded, and sober but enthusiastic detail. It's going to please, entertain, and educate everyone who reads it." --Robert Osborne, Hollywood Reporter columnist-critic and host of Turner Classic Movies

"Even if the day ever comes when her films are forgotten, she herself will not be. Amid the sacrifices of the `Greatest Generation,' Dietrich's own great and courageous defiance of the Nazi leadership of her own homeland, her beloved `heimat,' set a standard for principle and patriotism that still inspires today. --Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times writer and columnist, broadcaster, and author

"Thanks to Turner Classic Movies, Dietrich's films are always here to be seen. This book is the perfect complement: the earthy real woman beneath the beads and glitter, the Prussian soldier who was nothing like the artificial sexual phantom on-screen. She was a better actress and a greater person than she has been given credit for. It is time to re-evaluate Miss Dietrich. A Woman at War begins the process." --Liz Smith, New York Post columnist

About this edition

• Publisher: Painted Turtle
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 0814332498
• ISBN 13: 9780814332498
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 172