Written by Lee Pfeiffer & Michael Lewis
SUMMARY:
Released in 2002 by Citadel Press, this 260-page paperback presents the actor’s biographical/career profile up through the early 2000’s. The co-authors also analyze Harrison Ford’s films beginning with 1966’s Dead Heat on a Merry-Go-Round and ending with 2002’s K-9: The Widowmaker (still-in-production at the time of writing).
Note: This book’s prior editions are from 1996 and 1999.
REVIEW:
For Harrison Ford fans, this well-written book is a keepsake. The co-authors present their text in an enjoyably conversational tone, so this isn’t by any means a pretentious read. Rarely do their satirical jabs risk breaching good taste – i.e. a snarky comment describing Carl Weathers’ cliché-ridden dialogue in 1978’s Force Ten From Navarone come closest. Still, considering this endeavor necessitated Ford’s cooperation, any films in which he has a significant role won’t be taking any major critical hits from Pfeiffer & Lewis. Hence, a film like 1986’s offbeat character piece, The Mosquito Coast, is treated more sympathetically than perhaps it merits. Also, the co-authors offer Ford-friendly yet still-plausible explanations of notable controversies (i.e. his 1991-92 casting as Jack Ryan/backlash from Alec Baldwin and the 1997-98 Devil’s Own feud with co-star Brad Pitt).
However, predictable fawning doesn’t apply to Ford’s pre-stardom efforts — case in point: 1967’s notoriously awful Luv. The co-authors gleefully take hilarious jibes at this would-be Jack Lemmon-Peter Falk comedy, including an amusing video-still image of Ford’s cameo. Yes, he’s wearing a beret and furry vest – playing a hippie motorist, Hollywood-style.
Packed with invaluable insights to Ford’s decades-long career, The Films of Harrison Ford offers plenty of praise without devolving into a shameless puff piece.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES:
The last page offers quick bios on the co-authors.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars
