The Boxing Filmography: American Features, 1920-2003

Rating:
Summary: A must have for any boxing fan...
Review: An outstanding effort! As a boxing fan, this book is a must have. The 'short story' format is truly engaging, and makes this book a joy to read.

The depth and breadth of the author's knowledge of the sport, and films centered around the sport, is immediately apparent. I was blown away by both the quantity and quality of research put into this book (it is not uncommon for a brief 3 page treatment of a film to reference 20 to 30 footnotes from 6 to 8 different sources).

Well done Mr. Romano... Your passion for boxing was truly appreciated by this reader.

Rating:
Summary: Who knew there was so much to know? A great read!
Review: As a fan of both boxing and films, this book piqued my interest, but as a fan of good books I was wow-ed.

My first impression was to be impressed by the degree of detail and depth of the research that must have been required. There are a wealth of interesting facts and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Particularly with the older films, you are given a unique feel for the buzz of the era, with commentary and reviews that were current at the time.

My second impression was that it's format and the entertaining style in which it is written, combine to make this a book that you can devour, despite the fact that it's big, thorough and detailed. The format makes it digestible in small bites, and you don't lose anything by putting it down for a break. The author seems to really get what we'll think is important, funny or interesting about these films. I feel smarter for having read it, and my cocktail party conversation will certainly be the better for it!

Rating:
Summary: Goes the distance- ahead on all the score cards!
Review: Boxing and the movies- two staples of 20th century Americana examined in a thorough, entertaining and personable point of view. Romano's passion for and knowledge of both artforms shines through. Part history lesson, part film critique, part reference book, part social study- highly enjoyable!!

Rating:
Summary: Not the Best Research
Review: I found myself filling in a lot of blanks. Romano could have done better research on a few of these movies. He does not include Cagney on Cagney as and source and it shows. In Cagney on Cagney, Cagney speaks on several things he did training to the movies like how much weight he lost, life experience as a fighter, trainers, and where he got his keen ability to move like a boxer. He lost 35 pounds for City for Conquest, and that's not in the book. I lost trust for the author as a careful researcher. If he did not bother to read a source as important as Cagney's autobiography, what else did he not do? Don't waste your time on this gimmick book. The table of contents is the best part.

Hold out for a 2nd edition, with improved research.

Rating:
Summary: Just the book I've been waiting for.
Review: Just the book I've been waiting for - what a great read for any film and/or boxing fan like me! Each film's write-up is like a short story, chock full of interesting details on the film, actors, and sports icons. It's thoroughly researched, there are hundreds of footnotes! The book is a permanent part of my library; check it out (for yourself or as a unique present) and I'm sure you will agree. Here's hoping that Romano, a skilled writer, has another book in the works.

Rating:
Summary: Fantastic Film Facts
Review: This is a book of substance for serious boxing fans, film fans,and devotees of American sports history, complete with amusing anectdotes, fascinating facts and interesting quotes. I found it a great read, and am keeping it on my coffee table. Great holiday gift idea.