Reviews
"All of Tom Santopietro's books are impeccably researched, well-written, highly entertaining, informative, and original in understanding. The Way We Were is no exception. He clearly defines the lasting appeal of this movie, and is particularly perceptive about the importance of Barbra Streisand's presence in that success."--Jeanine Basinger, film historian and author of The Movie Musical, "Absorbing and full of beguiling detail." USA Today "Engaging...slick...entertaining" Kirkus Reviews "Meticulous attention to detail... Readers not familiar with the stories behind the novel and film will find much to relish." Publishers Weekly "Slickly told... it's the connections with family that give it a center as sweet as cannoli cream." Newsday Best Book of the Year-NPR, of Dancing Man For film lovers who enjoy special features such as deleted scenes or director's commentary, lovers of Broadway history, and Rodgers and Hammerstein devotees. Library Journal The New York Times Editor's Choice for Considering Doris Day "The expert and brilliant film historian Tom Santopietro takes us behind the scenes for the making of the film The Way We Were, a love story that defined a generation. You will be enthralled as Santopietro guides you through the development of the story, the unlikely pairing of the lead actors, and the miracle of the production itself. There will never be another artist of the magnitude, breadth, and magnificence of Barbra Streisand, yet in Santopietro's hands, Streisand is a working artist who navigates Hollywood despite her gender and insurmountable obstacles. You will be delighted by the cast that sets out to make this movie, especially the easygoing leading man, Robert Redford, a star who possesses as much grace as talent. There are surprises, shocking secrets never before revealed, and at the heart of the production, a determined group of artists who wanted to make an unforgettable film for post-war audiences. Spectacular."--Adriana Trigiani, film director and author of the best-selling The Good Left Undone All of Tom Santopietro's books are impeccably researched, well-written, highly entertaining, informative, and original in understanding. The Way We Were is no exception. He clearly defines the lasting appeal of this movie, and is particularly perceptive about the importance of Barbra Streisand's presence in that success."--Jeanine Basinger, film historian and author of The Movie Musical, "The expert and brilliant film historian Tom Santopietro takes us behind the scenes for the making of the film The Way We Were, a love story that defined a generation. You will be enthralled as Santopietro guides you through the development of the story, the unlikely pairing of the lead actors, and the miracle of the production itself. There will never be another artist of the magnitude, breadth, and magnificence of Barbra Streisand, yet in Santopietro's hands, Streisand is a working artist who navigates Hollywood despite her gender and insurmountable obstacles. You will be delighted by the cast that sets out to make this movie, especially the easygoing leading man, Robert Redford, a star who possesses as much grace as talent. There are surprises, shocking secrets never before revealed, and at the heart of the production, a determined group of artists who wanted to make an unforgettable film for post-war audiences. Spectacular."--Adriana Trigiani, film director and author of the best-selling The Good Left Undone, "All of Tom Santopietro's books are impeccably researched, well-written, highly entertaining and informative, and original in understanding. The Way We Were is no exception. He clearly defines the lasting appeal of this movie, and is particularly perceptive about the importance of Barbra Streisand's presence in that success."--Jeanine Basinger
Synopsis
With mingled reverence and wry humor, best-selling author Tom Santopietro embarks on an investigation to decode the enduring power of a landmark movie., The Way We Were is the definitive inside story of a landmark movie and its troubled making. Starring Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford, this iconic movie won multiple Academy Awards, but its success followed a variety of financial challenges, creative disputes, and the demands of the passionate individuals who fought to bring it into the world. With mingled reverence and wry humor, best-selling author Tom Santopietro embarks on an investigation to decode the enduring power of the movie. He analyzes the mysterious chemistry between Streisand and Redford, showing how their talents combined for an enthralling, once-in-a-lifetime blend that is cited in television shows and feature films to this day. Filled with first-hand accounts by actors, film historians, and members of the creative team, The Way We Were is the ultimate fiftieth anniversary account of a beloved movie that has remained an emotional touchstone for generations., The Way We Were: a nostalgia drenched, bittersweet romance starring superstars Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford at the peaks of their careers, and a story for everyone who was ever loved with passion, if not wisely. A smash hit around the world whose power echoes to this day--yet a film whose success was so far from assured that one studio executive was heard to exclaim: "Barbra Streisand doesn't sing and she plays a communist--are you trying to kill me?!" But succeed the film did, propelled by a smash-hit title song and career defining performances from Streisand and Redford. Now, just in time for the 50th anniversary of the film's release, this behind-the-scenes account from best-selling author Tom Santopietro features new insights from Barbra Streisand, James Woods, Lois Chiles, and Alan Bergman, providing the definitive inside story behind the challenges, disputes, and creative passions of those who fought to make this landmark film." Charting the path from screenwriter Arthur Laurents's initial inspiration to the fervent talk of a possible sequel, Santopietro mingles reverence and wry humor to decode the mysterious chemistry between Streisand and Redford that created a romance for the ages. Filled with humorous location anecdotes and fascinating first-hand accounts by actors, film historians, and members of the creative team, The Way We Were: The Making of a Romantic Classic is a witty, thoughtful, and loving book for everyone who cherishes this American classic.
