Return Engagement

Rating:
Summary: Touching evidence of mortality
Review: James Watters, with the noted fashion photographer Horst in tow, interviewed 74 actresses who have graced, and retired from, the silver screen during the 20th century. The resulting book is effective and somewhat depressing. It answers the question "whatever became of...," by repeatedly illustrating that what becomes of even the most radiant damsel is just what's in store for all of us if we live long enough. The author is unfailingly flattering to each of his subjects, who briefly recount their careers in front of the cameras and since retirement. Some have obviously done quite well in later life, while others less well situated express a wistful nostalgia for their past. Of course a good many were in poor health when interviewed, and many have passed away since the book came out in 1984. Accompanying each interview are one or more of the carefully lighted, posed, and retouched photos that were made of the subject in her heyday. These make stark contrast with the large reproductions of the shots taken by Horst during the interviews. Although I assume he set out to flatter his sitters with appropriate lighting and poses, many of the shots appear harshly lighted (especially indoors), and the prints reveal subject movement or other distracting fuzziness. I appreciate that no soft-focus devices were used, but the lighting and printing of the photos could have served many of these ladies better. However, I've photographed enough people to realize that, if given the choice, the subject doesn't always pick the shot you think is most flattering. On the other hand, many of these former stars still look as lissome and fit as we remember them from 40 or 50 years ago. The book is interesting, but I wonder if it came out quite as the author expected or hoped it would.