City of Nets: A Portrait of Hollywood in the 1940's

The Hollywood History: 1939-1948 by Otto Friedrich is a must-read for anyone interested in the glamour, intrigue, and drama of Tinseltown's heyday.

This comprehensive book takes readers on a journey through the golden age of Hollywood, from the height of its popularity in 1939 to the decline of the studio system in 1948.

With an all-star cast of actors, writers, musicians, composers, producers, directors, racketeers, labor leaders, journalists, and politicians, this book is a vivid narrative that brings to life the tumultuous decade of World War II and the Korean War. From the making of legendary movies such as Citizen Kane, The Maltese Falcon, Double Indemnity, and All About Eve, to the impact of anticommunist hysteria and a 1948 antitrust consent decree on Hollywood's business practices, this book provides a detailed account of the industry's rise and fall.

With its rich storytelling and insightful analysis, The Hollywood History: 1939-1948 is an essential read for anyone interested in the history of cinema and the fascinating world of Hollywood.