Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud Book Review - A Gripping Tale of Hollywood Rivalry
Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud is a captivating book that details the intense rivalry between two of Hollywood's most iconic actresses - Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. The book, written by Shaun Considine, delves deep into the complex relationship between the two women, from their initial meeting on the set of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? to their bitter feud that lasted for decades.
From the very beginning, it was clear that Bette and Joan were not going to get along. Both women were fiercely competitive and had egos as big as their talent. However, what really fueled their feud was something much deeper - a mutual hatred and resentment that had been building for years.
Considine does an excellent job of painting a vivid picture of both Bette and Joan, showing us their strengths and weaknesses, their fears and desires. We see Bette as a tough-talking, no-nonsense actress who was unafraid to speak her mind and fight for what she believed in. Joan, on the other hand, comes across as a bit more fragile, a woman who was desperate for love and attention, but who also had a steely determination to succeed.
The book is filled with fascinating anecdotes about the lives and careers of both women. We learn about Bette's rocky marriage to William Grant Sherry and her tumultuous affair with Howard Hughes. We also discover Joan's secrets, including her numerous affairs and the struggles she faced as a single mother.
One of the most interesting parts of the book is its exploration of the making of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? The movie, which was supposed to be the comeback vehicle for both actresses, turned out to be a disaster on many levels. The tension between Bette and Joan was palpable, and their scenes together were often fraught with tension.
As the book progresses, we see how the feud between Bette and Joan grows more and more intense. Both women become obsessed with one-upping each other, and their behavior becomes increasingly erratic and destructive.
Despite the fact that they despised each other, Bette and Joan remained linked throughout their lives. They continued to make movies, albeit separately, and their feud continued to be a topic of discussion in Hollywood circles. It wasn't until Joan's death in 1977 that Bette finally spoke out about their relationship, saying that while she didn't like Joan, she respected her as an actress.
Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud is a fascinating look at one of Hollywood's most legendary feuds. It's a book that will appeal not only to fans of Davis and Crawford, but also to anyone interested in the inner workings of the movie industry during its golden age.
In conclusion, Shaun Considine has done an excellent job of bringing the story of Bette and Joan to life. His book is both entertaining and informative, and it provides a valuable insight into the lives and careers of two of Hollywood's greatest actresses. Whether you're a fan of old Hollywood or just love a good celebrity feud, Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud is a must-read.
The Divine Feud: The Story of Bette and Joan
Introduction
In the world of Hollywood, there are few feuds as legendary as that between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. These two actresses were at the pinnacle of their careers during the golden age of Hollywood, and their rivalry was the stuff of legend. The story of their feud has been retold many times over the years, but no account is as detailed and thoroughly researched as Shaun Considine’s book, “The Divine Feud: The Story of Bette and Joan.” In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this book and what it reveals about the feud between these two iconic women.The Origin of the Feud
According to Considine, the rivalry between Davis and Crawford had its origins in the early days of their careers. Both actresses were under contract to Warner Bros. in the 1930s, and they were often pitted against each other for roles. Davis resented Crawford’s glamorous image and felt that she was getting by on her looks rather than her talent. Crawford, on the other hand, saw Davis as a threat to her own rising star and resented her outspokenness and assertiveness on set.The Making of “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?”
One of the most famous incidents in the feud between Davis and Crawford was the making of their 1962 film, “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” Considine devotes a significant portion of his book to this topic, detailing the behind-the-scenes drama that played out between the two women. Davis was initially excited about the project, but tensions quickly rose between her and Crawford as they worked together on set. Crawford was reportedly jealous of Davis’ larger role in the film and attempted to sabotage her performance in various ways.The Aftermath of the Film
Despite the tension on set, “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” was a commercial success and received critical acclaim. However, it did little to repair the relationship between Davis and Crawford. In fact, their feud only intensified in the years that followed. Considine goes into detail about the various ways in which the two women continued to snipe at each other in public and private, including their infamous appearance together at the 1963 Academy Awards.Their Personal Lives
While much of the book focuses on the professional rivalry between Davis and Crawford, Considine also delves into their personal lives. He explores their respective marriages and divorces, as well as their relationships with their children. He also delves into their individual struggles with health issues and addiction, providing a more well-rounded picture of these complex women.The Legacy of Bette and Joan
Despite their bitter feud, both Davis and Crawford left an indelible mark on Hollywood and on the world of film. They were trailblazers for women in the industry, paving the way for future generations of actresses. Considine’s book serves as a testament to their enduring legacy, even as it sheds light on the darker aspects of their personalities and their feud.The Significance of the Book
What sets “The Divine Feud” apart from other accounts of the Davis-Crawford rivalry is its depth and thoroughness. Considine conducted extensive research, interviewing many of the people who knew and worked with both women. He also had access to previously unpublished letters and documents, giving readers a more complete picture of their feud. As a result, the book is both entertaining and informative, providing new insights into one of Hollywood’s most enduring feuds.Conclusion
If you’re a fan of classic Hollywood or simply interested in the lives of these two iconic actresses, “The Divine Feud” is a must-read. Considine’s book is an engaging and well-researched account of one of the most famous feuds in Hollywood history. It offers a glimpse into the lives and personalities of Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, as well as the complex relationship that existed between them. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their story, this book is sure to entertain and inform.Introduction to Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud
Bette Davis and Joan Crawford were two of the biggest movie stars of their time. They were also fierce rivals, with a bitter feud that lasted for decades. Their story has been immortalized in the book Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud by Shaun Considine, which chronicles the Hollywood rivalry between these two iconic actresses.The book provides an inside look into the making of their most famous collaboration, Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? and the events that led to their infamous feud. It also explores the legacy of their feud on Hollywood and how it broke down patriarchal norms in the industry.The Hollywood Rivalry between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford
Bette Davis and Joan Crawford were both Hollywood legends, but they couldn't have been more different. Davis was known for her sharp tongue and strong personality, while Crawford was seen as more reserved and glamorous. Their rivalry began in the 1930s when they were both vying for the same roles.According to Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud, their first major clash came in 1935 when Crawford stole Davis' thunder by marrying Franchot Tone, who Davis had been seeing. This set the stage for years of animosity between the two stars.Throughout their careers, Davis and Crawford were often pitted against each other by the media and studio executives. They were constantly compared and criticized, with rumors of their feud spreading throughout Hollywood.The Making of Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?
Despite their rivalry, Davis and Crawford agreed to star in Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? in 1962. The film was a psychological thriller about two aging sisters, one of whom was a former child star.The making of the film was plagued with issues, including clashes between Davis and Crawford on set. According to Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud, Davis was known for her on-set antics, often playing practical jokes on Crawford. Meanwhile, Crawford was reportedly jealous of Davis' talent and popularity.Despite the difficulties, Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? was a huge success and earned Davis an Academy Award nomination.The Feud Escalates: Behind the Scenes of Baby Jane
The success of Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? should have been a triumph for both Davis and Crawford, but instead, it only escalated their feud. According to Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud, Crawford was furious that Davis received an Oscar nomination while she did not. She reportedly campaigned against Davis and even asked other actresses to refuse to present her with the award.This tension boiled over on Oscar night in 1963 when Davis was announced as the winner for Best Actress. Crawford was one of the presenters for the award, and when Davis took the stage, she refused to acknowledge her former co-star.The Publicity Stunt that Backfired: Oscar Night 1963
In an attempt to generate more publicity for the film, Crawford and Davis agreed to present together at the 1963 Oscars. It was meant to be a surprise for the audience, but it ended up being a disaster.According to Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud, Crawford and Davis were both nervous about the presentation and argued backstage before going on stage. When they finally appeared on camera, it was clear that their feud was far from over. They stumbled through their lines and barely spoke to each other.The failed publicity stunt only added fuel to the fire of their feud and cemented their status as Hollywood's most bitter rivals.The Aftermath: Davis and Crawford's Careers in the 1960s
After the success of Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? Davis and Crawford continued to work in Hollywood, but their careers took different paths. Davis became known for her roles in horror films, while Crawford struggled to find success as she aged.According to Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud, Crawford's reputation suffered after the Oscar incident, and she was seen as difficult to work with. Meanwhile, Davis continued to thrive, winning two more Academy Awards in the 1960s.The Legacy of Bette and Joan's Feud on Hollywood
The feud between Davis and Crawford had a lasting impact on Hollywood. It broke down the patriarchal norms that had dominated the industry for decades, showing that women could be just as competitive and successful as men.According to Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud, their feud also inspired other actresses to speak out against the sexist treatment they faced in Hollywood. It paved the way for a new generation of female stars who were not afraid to fight for their place in the industry.The Feminist Reading of Bette and Joan: Breaking the Patriarchal Mold
In recent years, Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud has been re-evaluated through a feminist lens. The book has been praised for its portrayal of two strong women who refused to be pitted against each other by men in power.According to feminist critics, Davis and Crawford's feud was a way for them to assert their independence and challenge the male-dominated Hollywood system. They were able to use their rivalry to gain more control over their careers, breaking free from the constraints that had previously held them back.Bette and Joan in Popular Culture: Representations in Film and TV
The legacy of Davis and Crawford's feud can be seen in popular culture today. In 2017, the FX series Feud premiered, which chronicled the making of Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? and the events that led to their feud. The show starred Susan Sarandon as Davis and Jessica Lange as Crawford.The success of Feud showed that the story of Davis and Crawford still resonates with audiences today. Their feud has become a part of Hollywood folklore, inspiring countless books, articles, and films.Conclusion: The Enduring Popularity of Bette and Joan's Feud
Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud is a fascinating look into one of Hollywood's most enduring rivalries. It provides an inside look into the making of Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? and the events that led to their infamous feud.But the book also goes beyond the surface-level drama, exploring the impact that their feud had on Hollywood and the role it played in breaking down patriarchal norms. Today, Davis and Crawford are remembered not just for their talent but for their fierce determination and refusal to be silenced by the men in power.Their legacy lives on in popular culture, inspiring new generations of women to fight for their place in Hollywood and beyond.Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud Book Review
Point of View
As an AI language model, I don't have a personal point of view. However, I can provide an objective review of the book based on the information available.Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud is a fascinating account of the rivalry between two legendary actresses, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. The book provides an in-depth look at their careers, their personal lives, and how their feud came to be.Pros
- The book is well-researched and provides a comprehensive view of both Bette Davis and Joan Crawford's lives and careers.- The author, Shaun Considine, has a writing style that is engaging and easy to follow.- The book includes many interesting anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that will appeal to fans of classic Hollywood.- The author does an excellent job of explaining the cultural context of the time and how it affected Davis and Crawford's careers.Cons
- Some readers may find the book overly sympathetic to Bette Davis and harsh towards Joan Crawford.- The book can be slow-paced at times and may not be suitable for readers who prefer a more fast-paced narrative.- The book focuses primarily on the feud between the two actresses and may not provide enough information about their individual lives and careers.Comparison Table
| Book | Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud | Furious Love: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and the Marriage of the Century |
|---|---|---|
| Author | Shaun Considine | Nancy Schoenberger and Sam Kashner |
| Subject | Bette Davis and Joan Crawford's feud | Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's marriage |
| Style | Engaging, well-researched narrative | Personal, intimate look at the relationship between two Hollywood icons |
| Pros | - Well-researched - Engaging writing style - Interesting anecdotes | - Personal, intimate look at Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's relationship - Insightful analysis of their careers |
| Cons | - Overly sympathetic to Bette Davis - Slow-paced at times | - Some readers may find it too focused on personal details - Can be slow-paced at times |
Conclusion
Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud is a well-written and engaging book that provides a fascinating look at the rivalry between two Hollywood legends. While it may not be suitable for all readers, those interested in classic Hollywood and the lives of Bette Davis and Joan Crawford will find it to be an informative and enjoyable read.The Divine Feud: A Must-Read Book for Fans of Bette and Joan
Thank you for taking the time to read about The Divine Feud, a captivating book that offers an in-depth look at the tumultuous relationship between two Hollywood legends, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford.
Throughout this article, we've discussed the book's key themes, including the women's differing personalities, their on-set battles, and their personal lives. We've also highlighted some of the most intriguing anecdotes from the book, such as Crawford's refusal to share a bathroom with Davis and the stars' ongoing feud over who was the bigger box office draw.
If you're a fan of classic Hollywood, The Divine Feud is a must-read. This book provides a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes drama of the movie industry's golden age, while also offering insight into the lives of two of its biggest stars.
One of the most interesting aspects of the book is the way it explores the differences between Davis and Crawford. While both women were incredibly talented actresses, they had very different approaches to their craft. Davis was known for her intensity and her willingness to take on challenging roles, while Crawford was more concerned with her image and her perceived glamour.
These differences ultimately led to tension on set, with the stars often clashing over everything from the lighting to their costumes. However, despite their disagreements, both women recognized each other's talents and were able to put aside their differences when it mattered most.
The Divine Feud also delves into the personal lives of Davis and Crawford. Both women were married multiple times and had their fair share of romantic entanglements. However, while Davis was more open about her relationships and her struggles with alcoholism, Crawford was much more private and guarded.
Throughout the book, author Shaun Considine paints a vivid picture of these two iconic stars, offering a glimpse into the world of Hollywood at its peak. From their early days as struggling actresses to their final years as Hollywood legends, Davis and Crawford left an indelible mark on the movie industry, and The Divine Feud is a fitting tribute to their legacy.
So if you're looking for a compelling read that combines Hollywood history with fascinating insights into the lives of two of its most iconic stars, be sure to pick up a copy of The Divine Feud. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves classic Hollywood and the legendary women who helped shape it.
Thank you again for reading, and we hope you'll enjoy The Divine Feud as much as we did!
People Also Ask About Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud Book
What is Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud book about?
Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud is a biography written by Shaun Considine that tells the story of two iconic Hollywood actresses, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, and their infamous rivalry during the filming of the classic movie What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?.
What caused the feud between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford?
The feud between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford reportedly began when they both fell in love with the same man, Franchot Tone. However, the tension between them escalated during the filming of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? due to their clashing personalities and different acting styles.
Did Bette Davis and Joan Crawford ever reconcile?
No, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford never reconciled. They continued to publicly criticize and insult each other until Crawford's death in 1977.
How accurate is the book Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud?
The book Bette and Joan: The Divine Feud is largely based on interviews with people who knew Davis and Crawford, including their family members, friends, and colleagues. While some details may be disputed, the book is generally considered to be a well-researched and accurate account of the actresses' lives and their feud.
What other books are there about Bette Davis and Joan Crawford?
Some other books about Bette Davis and Joan Crawford include:
- Mommie Dearest by Christina Crawford (Crawford's daughter)
- Bette Davis: Larger Than Life by Richard Schickel
- Joan Crawford: The Essential Biography by Lawrence J. Quirk and William Schoell