Introduction
William Goldman was an American novelist, playwright, and screenwriter who was famous for his works in both literature and film. Born in 1931 in Chicago, he had a successful career that spanned over five decades. His contributions to the entertainment industry are still celebrated today, and his legacy continues to inspire aspiring writers and filmmakers.
William Goldman: Books in Order
The Princess Bride
The Princess Bride is perhaps William Goldman’s most famous book. It was published in 1973 and became an instant classic. The story follows the adventures of Westley and Princess Buttercup, two lovers who are separated by fate and must overcome numerous obstacles to be reunited. The book is a masterpiece of satire and adventure, and it has been adapted into a successful movie and a Broadway play.
Marathon Man
Marathon Man is another popular book by William Goldman. It was published in 1974 and tells the story of a graduate student named Babe Levy who becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy involving his brother and a former Nazi war criminal. The book is a thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and it was also adapted into a successful movie starring Dustin Hoffman and Laurence Olivier.
Adventures in the Screen Trade
Adventures in the Screen Trade is a non-fiction book by William Goldman that was published in 1983. It is a memoir that details Goldman’s experiences as a screenwriter in Hollywood. The book provides an inside look into the film industry and is a must-read for anyone interested in screenwriting or film production.
William Goldman: Movies
The Princess Bride
The Princess Bride was adapted into a movie in 1987. The film was directed by Rob Reiner and starred Cary Elwes and Robin Wright. The movie was a critical and commercial success and has since become a beloved classic. It is considered one of the best book-to-movie adaptations of all time.
Saving Private Ryan
William Goldman wrote the screenplay for Saving Private Ryan, which was directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1998. The movie starred Tom Hanks and told the story of a group of soldiers who are sent on a mission to find a paratrooper during World War II. The film was a box office success and won several awards, including five Academy Awards.
William Goldman: Biography
Early Life
William Goldman was born in Chicago in 1931. He attended Oberlin College and later graduated from Columbia University with a degree in English. He began his career as a novelist in the 1950s and went on to become a successful screenwriter in Hollywood.
Legacy
William Goldman’s contributions to literature and film are still celebrated today. He was a master storyteller who had a unique ability to captivate audiences with his words. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring writers and filmmakers, and his works will be remembered for generations to come.
William Goldman: Quotes
“The easiest thing to do on earth is not write.”
This quote by William Goldman emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in the writing process. It reminds us that writing is not easy, but it is worth the effort.
“The key to a great screenplay is to make the audience care about the characters.”
This quote by William Goldman highlights the importance of character development in screenwriting. It reminds us that the audience must be invested in the characters in order for the story to be successful.
FAQ
Who is William Goldman?
William Goldman was an American novelist, playwright, and screenwriter who is best known for his works in the field of film and television.
What are some of William Goldman’s famous books?
William Goldman’s most famous books include “The Princess Bride,” “Marathon Man,” “Magic,” and “Adventures in the Screen Trade.”
What are some of William Goldman’s famous movies?
William Goldman’s most famous movies include “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “All the President’s Men,” “The Princess Bride,” and “Misery.”
What is “The Princess Bride” about?
“The Princess Bride” is a novel written by William Goldman that tells the story of a young woman named Buttercup and her true love, Westley, as they navigate through a series of obstacles and adventures.
What is “Adventures in the Screen Trade” about?
“Adventures in the Screen Trade” is a non-fiction book written by William Goldman that provides an insider’s look into the world of Hollywood and the film industry.
What is William Goldman’s biography?
William Goldman was born on August 12, 1931, in Highland Park, Illinois. He attended Oberlin College and later went on to receive a master’s degree in English from Columbia University. He worked as a novelist, playwright, and screenwriter throughout his career, and won two Academy Awards for his screenplays. He passed away on November 16, 2018, at the age of 87.
