Charming, engaging, and surprisingly forthright, Michael Caine gives us his insider's view of Hollywood and the story of his brilliant second act When he was in his late fifties, Michael Caine believed his glamorous, rags-to-riches Hollywood career had come to an end. The scripts being sent his way were worse and worse. When one script really disappointed, he called the producer to complain about the part. The producer said, "No, no, we don't want you for the lover, we want you for the father." Salvation came in the unlikely form of his old friend Jack Nicholson, who convinced him to give acting one more shot. What followed was not only an incredible personal transformation but also one of the most radical comebacks in film history. Learning to accept his new role both on camera and in his own life, Caine went on to win his second Oscar, be knighted by the queen, and deliver some of his best performances to date. Now he shares the spectacular story of his life, from his humble upbringing in London's poverty-stricken Elephant and Castle, his military service, touching marriage and family life, and lively adventures with friends, to legendary meetings with fellow stars, forays as a restaurateur, and hilarious off-screen encounters from his glittering five-decade career. Caine's The Elephant to Hollywood brings his gift for storytelling and his insider's view to a tale that is funny, warm, and deeply honest.

(Applause Books). A master actor who's appeared in an enormous number of films, starring with everyone from Nicholson to Kermit the Frog, Michael Caine is uniquely qualified to provide his view of making movies. This revised and expanded edition features great photos, with chapters on: Preparation, In Front of the Camera Before You Shoot, The Take, Characters, Directors, On Being a Star, and much more. "Remarkable material ... A treasure ... I'm not going to be looking at performances quite the same way ... FASCINATING!" Gene Siskel

In the 1960s, after films like The Ipcress File and Funeral in Berlin, Michael Caine could be easily identified. This book looks at his acting career in films such as Zulu, which made him a star, where he played the part of an aristocratic officer. Since then, with a few exceptions when he has played the part of a foreigner in films like The Last Valley and The Eagle Has Landed, his deadpan cockney tones have been his trademark in films such as Get Carter, Alfie, Educating Rita and Hannah and Her Sisters.

The original autobiography of one of the most versatile, enduring and beloved British actors of our time, re-issued with a striking new package.

Now in his 85th year, Hollywood legend Michael Caine shares wisdom and stories from his remarkable career in this "engrossing" memoir that "shines with positive energy" (Library Journal, starred review). One of our best-loved actors, Michael Caine has starred in over 100 films in his six-decade career, spanning classic movies like Alfie, Zulu, and The Italian Job (the inspiration for the book title) to playing Alfred opposite Christian Bale's Batman in Christopher Nolan's blockbuster Dark Knight trilogy. Caine has excelled in every kind of role--with a skill that's made it look easy. Caine knows what success takes. He's made it to the pinnacle of his profession from humble origins. But as he says, "Small parts can lead to big things. And if you keep doing things right, the stars will align when you least expect it." Still working and more beloved than ever, Caine now shares everything he's learned-and "his fans will be rewarded, as will anyone seeking an enjoyable, inspirational read" (Library Journal).

Born Maurice Micklewhite, son of a Billingsgate fish porter and a charlady; Michael Caine's life has been an extraordinary rollercoaster: from washing dishes and fighting on National Service, to winning two Oscars and being knighted by the Queen.With more than eighty films to his name, he has starred in some of the classics of modern cinema: as an action anti-hero in Get Carter, a Cockney Lothario in Alfie, a disillusioned alcoholic academic in Educating Rita. He is an enduring model of British cool.This authorised biography charts the amazing highs and lows in his turbulent ride to fame, fortune and respect.