Blowing the Bloody Doors Off
CBC Books | | Posted: December 10, 2018 5:44 PM | Last Updated: December 12, 2018
Michael Caine
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 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. (From Hachette Book Group)
From the book
The first time I was in the United States, when I had just made Alfie, I was sitting on my own in the lobby of the Beverly Hills Hotel and heard the sound of a helicopter landing in the gardens opposite. This, the porter told me, was strictly illegal. He and I stood at the door to see who was so flagrantly flouting the law — presumably the President of the United States, or at least of the Beverly Hills Hotel. Across Sunset Boulevard, out of a swirling sun-flecked cloud of dust, six foot four and in full cowboy get-up, strode the unmistakable figure of John Wayne. As I stood there with my mouth open he caught my eye and altered his course to come over to me. "What's your name, kid?" he asked.
"Michael Caine," I managed to croak.
"That's right," he agreed, with a tilt of his head. "You were in that movie Alfie."
"Yes," I said. I wasn't really keeping up my end of the conversation.
"You're gonna be a star, kid," he drawled, draping his arm around my shoulders. "But if you want to stay one, remember this: talk low, talk slow, and don't say too much."
"Thank you, Mr. Wayne," I said.
"Call me Duke." He gave me a chuck on the arm, turned around and swaggered off.
From Blowing the Bloody Doors Off by Michael Caine ©2018. Published by Hachette Book Group.