July 11, 2011
In this clever and heartfelt memoir, Lithgow, well-known for his role in the movie Terms of Endearment and TV's Third Rock from the Sun, tells of his life in the theater and the effect his father had on his formative years. Arthur Lithgow was himself an actor, director, teacher, and promoter of theater, and the family lived a vagabond life as the son became the proverbial new kid and "the good boy and not necessarily in a good way." As Lithgow writes, his talent propelled him to Harvard; he then studied at the London Academy of Dramatic Art and returned immersed in regional theater acting, designing and directing for his father. His father readily imparted words of wisdom early on, but as Lithgow grew up, his paternal guidance diminished. Their relationship was complicated: while Lithgow's Broadway career surged with a Tony Award, his father's career slid, which left Lithgow feeling guilty. With understated wit, Lithgow delivers insight into the difference between stage and screen acting and offers wonderful anecdotes of directors Brian De Palma and Terrence Malick.
Starred review from January 2, 2012
In this audio edition of his memoir, Lithgow pays tribute to his father, John, an actor, director, and producer who introduced the famous actor to the theater as a young boy. With endless musings regarding his personal history, Lithgow weaves together a colorful portrait of life as an actor: the good times, the bad times, and why both were so important to the art of acting itself. Listening to Lithgow is as easy as watching him act. His delivery is seamless, his dedication to the performance unwavering. Not just a memoir but also a statement about the art of acting, this audiobook is an illuminating study of process and method. Listeners will find it hard to turn off. A Harper hardcover.