Close-Up

LEN DEIGHTON

Publication: Jonathan Cape, 1972, London

First edition. Lengthy warm inked inscription on the title page from Len Deighton to English film director and author Bryan Forbes in which he discusses Forbes' latest book "Distant Laughter." Deighton also discusses this book "Close-Up" in which he has abandoned the suspense theme and chose instead to explore Hollywood's film industry. The basis for "Close-Up" is the story about Marshall Stone who is an international superstar and charismatic member of Hollywood's elite. Abundantly blessed with charm, genius and wealth, he desires still one more quality: everlasting youth. Marshall thinks he may get what he wants when an eminent author begins writing a biography on him, but the book threatens to expose his painful, untold true story. Dazzled by flattery and numbed by threats, the biographer gets caught up in a world where books are properties, films are investments, ratings are rigged, and stars and directors are bought and sold like inanimate objects. The rituals, politics, and back-stabbing tactics of the richest industry in the world have never been more effectively portrayed than in this classic Deighton written with his signature thriller flair. "Bryan Forbes (1926-2013) was an English film director, screenwriter, film producer, actor and novelist described as a "Renaissance man" and "one of the most important figures in the British film industry." He directed the film The Stepford Wives (1975) and wrote and/or directed several other critically acclaimed films, including Whistle Down the Wind (1961), Seance on a Wet Afternoon (1964) and King Rat (1965). He also scripted several films directed by others, such as The League of Gentlemen (1960), The Angry Silence (1960) and Only Two Can Play (1962)." ... Wikipedia. This copy must have meant a great deal to Forbes as the copy has been rebound by a two-tone three quarter leather and cloth by Asprey & Company LTD, with raised bands on the spine, title stamped in gilt on the spine, front and rear marbled endpapers, all edges gilt, and with Bryan Forbes's neat bookplate on the front pastedown sheet. A truly remarkable copy in fine condition and one-of-a-kind.

Inventory Number: 49639