Many here are going to disagree with me, but in my opinion, the very best
BIOGRAPHY on Garland is still Gerold Frank's 1975 "Judy." Yes, it was written
with the "cooperation" and involvement of Judy's then-surviving husbands, family,
friends, and co-workers, but the book is astonishingly insightful, and probes
deeply into the studio system, as well as HOW Judy got so tired, and so mixed
up so early in her young adult life. Films such as "Oz", "Meet Me in St. Louis",
"Easter Parade", and "A Star is Born" are covered in tremendous detail. The
last, tough years at Metro ('47-'50) are also examined with great depth.
Many complain about several inaccuracies, but really, WHAT book DOESN'T have
mistakes? There's also the problem of Sid Luft's heavy participation, and the
clumsy way he ATTEMPTS to come across as Judy's savior. But in many ways, he
WAS her savior. And his many faults (mishandling Judy's money, using her, never
really earning his own living) are obvious to even the most average of people.
One poster here attacks the book because it doesn't cover Carnegie Hall with
more depth. But for heaven's sake, it's not a book focused merely on her
concerts. It's a book examining a complex, troubled, and brilliant woman.
Where Frank succeeds is in taking us through the cycle of Judy's addictions
(covered very well in the "Annie Get Your Gun" fiasco, as well as in the
1950's). One truly gets a sense of KNOWING Judy, her humor, her faults, and
her enormously vulnerable, and loving heart.
Frankly, all other biographies pale by comparison. Despite its flaws, it's still
the best biography written on Garland. Highly recommended.
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