This collection of rare photographs from Hollywood's Golden Era-including never-before-seen shots of Marilyn Monroe, Gary Cooper, Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Cary Grant, and other legendary stars-showcases 150 of the best pictures taken by photojournalist Murray Garrett when he was on assignment in Hollywood from 1946 to the 1970s. Some of these shots ran at the time in LIFE, Time, and other national magazines; many are published here for the first time.

From a rare shot of Marlon Brando at home snuggling with his cat to a heartwarming photo of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall whispering together at a party, these remarkable pictures, together with Murray Garrett's own comments and reminiscences, give readers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse of Hollywood in its heyday.

MURRAY GARRETT was a professional photographer specializing in show business, first in New York in the early 1940s, then in Hollywood from 1946 until the early 1970s. He was sent on assignment by the best news magazines, including LIFE, Time, and Look, and also worked privately for many directors, film executives, and stars. Now retired, he lives in Sherman Oaks, California.

150 duotone photographs, 9 x 113/4"

1) A reference to Cecil B. DeMille's "Sunset Boulevard".
It's Billy Wilder's and Leigh Brackett's picture. DeMille had
a cameo in it.

2) Donna Douglas (of "Beverly Hillbillies" fame) is referred to
in a caption as "Donna Dixon" and in the accompanying text as
"Joey Heatherton".

3) Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman, in English riding clothes,
are described as wearing "Western gear".

4) Sammy Davis Jr's ex-wife, Mai Britt, is twice referred to as
"May Britt".

Did anybody edit this book, or were Garrett's reminiscences taken
on faith because he, of all people, should know?


The Best of Hollywood's Golden Age   October 27, 2000
Steve Solomon (Woodland Hills, CA USA)
10 out of 11 found this review helpful

I have had the priveledge of knowing Murray Garrett for over 25 years as a business associate and friend. I was completely blown away by his incredible talent as a photographer and writer. This book captures a Hollywood that I remember as my home town and really was the entertainment capitol of the world. The pictures are unique, and definitely candid. Murray's comments about the stars shed new insights into the personalities and quirks of some of the most loved and famous celebrities of the era. A beautiful collection of memorys from a man who approaches Hollywood from an honest, compasionate and humorous point of view. Highly recommended.


Pre-press   September 24, 2000
Dick Wooley (Cleveland, Ohio)
6 out of 6 found this review helpful

I had the privilege of seeing much of this book in pre-press form and knew it had to be a knockout. The pics are all exceptional but Murray's anecdotes and insight make this much more than a celebrity puff-piece. The finished book is even better than my early predictions. Great stuff!!!