Deanna Durbin in Hollywood: Her Life, Films and Music

Deanna Durbin was a popular actress of the 1930s and 1940s, known as the first film teenager. This book pays tribute to her by placing her life and career in the context of her time and appraising her film work from both a contemporaneous and a modern view. It includes a short biography, an in-depth discussion of her films, and an extensive filmography and bibliography. Readers will discover the true identity behind the people's Cinderella and how Durbin's career opened Hollywood's studio gates to a generation of adolescent performers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Deanna Durbin, often referred to as the first film teenager, emerged as one of the most beloved and iconic actresses of the 1930s and 1940s. Her remarkable journey to fame began with mesmerizing performances alongside legends like Judy Garland, and she went on to captivate audiences with her lead roles in classic film musicals. However, what lay behind the scenes of this glamorous persona was a complex and often challenging reality. Despite her status as a princess to the public, Durbin was a puppet controlled by film studios and producers, subjected to the scrutiny and criticism of critics and gossip columnists. As her twelve-year career drew to a close, her sole desire was to be forgotten, a wish that proved impossible.

This captivating book pays homage to Deanna Durbin by contextualizing her life and career within the historical framework of her time. It offers a comprehensive appraisal of her film work, exploring it from both a contemporaneous and a modern perspective. The book includes a concise biography that delves into the personal details of Durbin's life, providing insights into her upbringing, education, and early career aspirations.

In-depth discussions of her films follow, shedding light on the range and significance of her contributions to the cinema. Each film is analyzed, exploring its themes, characters, and artistic merits, while also considering its historical context and impact on the industry. An extensive filmography and bibliography are included to provide readers with a comprehensive reference for further exploration of Durbin's work.

Through this book, readers will discover the true essence behind the people's Cinderella and the profound impact that Durbin's career had on Hollywood's studio system. It unveils the challenges and struggles that she faced as a young actress navigating the treacherous waters of the film industry, as well as the pioneering role that she played in opening the doors for a generation of adolescent performers to pursue their dreams in Hollywood.

Deanna Durbin's legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day, reminding us of the power of perseverance, talent, and the indomitable spirit of a young woman who refused to be forgotten in the annals of cinematic history.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476685335