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Truman Capote: A Literary Life at the Movies

by Tison Pugh
Univ. of Georgia. 2014. 328p. photos. notes. index. ISBN 9780820346687. $79.95; pap. ISBN 9780820346694. $28.95. FILM
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Pugh's (English, Univ. of Central Florida; Queer Chivalry) latest is the piece of film history that you didn't even know that your library was missing. It's a fascinating look at the effect of Truman Capote's literature (In Cold Blood) and scriptwriting on film, sprinkled with allusions to his increasing cheekiness in regards to movies of his time (1924–84). The title includes smart discussions, answering such questions as how Breakfast at Tiffany's made it to the big screen when Capote had such reservations about adapting literature to film. Pugh explores how the author's sexuality permeated his writing and what that meant when translated into mainstream movies. This book is not for those seeking a quick read or a photo-filled tome, but for a fresh perspective on the meeting of literature and film, look no further.
VERDICT This book expertly explains how film studies, film history, and queer theory all converge in the charismatic Capote. A must for anyone interested in seeing the connections between film adaptations and quintessential Capote literature.
Reviewed by Jennifer Thompson, Richland Lib., Columbia, SC , Jul 01, 2014
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