 |
If you've ever wondered about the true personalities and characters behind the making of "The Sound of Music," then this book is essential reading as a primary resource for fans and film-buffs alike. The author writes so vividly of the artistic and human perspectives which still catch our imagination, dazzle our senses and describe the real drama beyond the silver screen. Charmian Carr reveals the extensive creativity of the multi-talented cast (dancing, singing, acting, writing, choreography, musical expression), the on-location photography (especially Salzburg, Austria), the vivid history of the real von Trapp family, the repeated challenges to the eventual finish of production, and the ongoing stories of cast, crew and the seemingly limitless legions of international fans. The author shares many personal letters which illustrate the enduring charm and broad appeal of this film classic. We come face to face with details of set design, how everyone met at the very beginning of the planning stages, how certain scenes were cleverly constructed, how relationships developed between the various characters over time, and how a 3 hour film still engenders such intense, beguiling devotion. There are some very personal observations on the author's own family upbringing, the first blush of artistic inclinations, the tenuous start of an initially awkward film career, and the time-woven triumph of how this film has affected both performer and audience in an unforeseen manner. The photographs tell much of the story. We see the 1965 stills of raw, behind-the-scenes making of a classic. The reader can grasp the artistic and intellectual growth enjoyed by much of the crew, the hours of skill-sharpening as the demands for high achievement pushed everyone forward. The author relates some ingratiating detail on the 1998 meeting of the film characters with the real von Trapp family and their Broadway counterparts. We sense Charmian Carr's development as an actress, singer, dancer and even as a graceful and lovely international ambassador. To see the "seven celluloid siblings" pictured on page 165 (both then and now) is to meet Charmian, Nicholas, Heather, Duane, Angela, Debbie, and Kym in an entirely new light, a revelation of the inner depth of human endurance amidst the foibles and trials of the entertainment industry. There are some irresistible moments in this book. The author relates the stunning accident in the gazebo scene which could have scarred her for life. But Charmian Carr was determined to finish that scene no matter what the cost, and she received a standing ovation from cast and crew at the successful completion of that marvelous dance with Rolf. Similarly, there are delightful portraits of Christopher Plummer, Nicholas Hammond, Julie Andrews, Robert Wise and Saul Chaplin. The intimate portraits sing with a kind of architectural splendor which display a comprehensive grasp of human nature amidst the grand color and drama of the film community. I can recommend this volume without reservation to all those who wish to relive the making of a great film. Charmian Carr writes with discernment, grace, charm, wit, style and that internationally known attribute we simply know as love. Such a book can be read on multiple occasions as a living memory of great music, great art, great writing and the noble aspirations of the human spirit. Thank you, Liesl, forever!Read full review
As a namesake of the oldest VonTrapp child, this book was a must have for me! The Sound of Music was my mom's favorite movie and she couldn't wait to name me Liesl. She later said I finally "grew into" the name. But about the book... I really enjoyed the insight of the character and details about the cast. This gives an in-depth, behind the scenes look into the making of this movie and brings me to love it even more than before. I'm passing it on to Mom to read next! This book is sure to be a appreciated by anyone who has seen the classic movie that is such a favorite to so many around the world!
A very fair telling of the making of The Sound of Music and the stars that were in it..before they were "stars". Liked hearing about how scenes were set up and of the locations. A good "read".
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
A fascinating read by the "oldest daughter" from Sound of Music", featuring behind the scenes glimpses of the various actors at that time & over the years, as they have all maintained on-going friendships. A really nice, upbeat book that was hard to put down. I read it after reading Maria Von Trapp's 2 autobiographical books of the actual VonTrapp family. All were great!
I bought the book Forever Liesl by Charmian Carr, I have always injoyed the the Sound of Music. I started reading her book about the makeing of the Sound of Music and could not put it down. I was fun to raed about the things that whent on behind the the set. The story about how Charmian Carr got the part as Liesl and that it came down to how her eyes would look on film as to if she would get the part of Liesl. How she crashed through the glass in the gazebo and how she would not stop and let a stunt double fill in.
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Best Selling in Books
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Save on Books
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- You may also like
