Classic Actresses

This is a really terrible book about the Fatty Arbuckle case because all it does is trash the victim. The author gives us a totally unproven theory about Virginia Rappe dying from a botched abortion. The problem is there is no proof this ever happened. Not one person who attended the Labor Day party that killed Virginia ever told this story - not at the three trials or in any interviews. The entire book is just based on salacious rumors! In his attempt to clear Fatty Arbuckle the author tarnishes the memory of Virginia Rape, a beautiful actress who didn't deserve to die.

Slaptick Divas is one of those books you simply MUST HAVE is you're a fan of classic films. Funny silent actresses are often overlooked because their male counterparts (Chaplin, Keaton) get all the attention. These women were just as talented, just as funny, and they led fascinating and often tragic lives. This book pays tribute to all the great ladies - Mabel Normand, Marie Dressler, Phyllis Haver, Marion Davies, Marie Prevost, bathing beauty Thelma Hill, and lesbian Fay Tincher. There are literally hundreds of actresses profiled - too many of theme are forgotten today. I learned so much about stars that I love and a lot about actresses that I've never even heard of. Even if you a a hardcore silent film fan you will probably learn something from this book. Steva Massa obviously did a lot of reaseach and he found tons of rare photos. I'd recommend this book to all classic films fans.