Author: Ted Schwarz

Publisher: Lyons Press

ISBN: 978-1-4930-7236-1

In Hollywood Confidential: How The Studios Beat The Mob At Their Own Game, Ted Schwarz masterfully combines fascinating stories to uncover the hidden connections between Hollywood and organized crime.

Behind the glamorous silver screen lies a dark underbelly and cunning maneuvers, which this fascinating book takes readers on a mesmerizing journey to explore.

With meticulous research and a treasure trove of riveting anecdotes, Schwarz delves into the long-hidden secrets of Tinseltown, offering a comprehensive exploration of the mob’s influence on the silver screen throughout history.

Brace yourself to be fascinated as this remarkable book uncovers the shrewd techniques employed by major Hollywood studios.

Schwarz skillfully guides readers through the captivating history of the Golden Age of Hollywood, dividing the narrative into three engrossing sections or “acts.”

Among the individuals introduced in this intricate tapestry is John "Handsome Johnny" Rosselli, a notable player in organized crime.

Even though he was initially separated from his criminal activities, Rosselli's Hollywood connections allowed him to create influential relationships within the entertainment sector.

As part of the Chicago Outfit, led by Al Capone and later Sam Giancana, Rosselli broadened the reach of organized crime to the West Coast, specifically in Las Vegas. His power and control extended to labor unions and gambling operations, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Another important player in this narrative is Joe Kennedy, the patriarch of the Kennedy family. Kennedy's film involvement spanned production, distribution, and financing. It was rumored that he had ties to organized crime, including the Mafia, during his stint in Hollywood.. These connections allegedly gave him the financial support and guidance he needed to navigate the complex film industry.

Although Al Capone didn't have a direct connection with Hollywood, his notorious reputation and people's obsession with gangster lifestyle influenced the portrayal of organized crime in gangster movies.

 It shaped the narratives and captivated audiences for generations, becoming a defining characteristic of the industry..

Another intriguing chapter by Schwarz examines how Hollywood actors and their families' image was pivotal in shaping the industry's success.

Behind the glitz and glamor, there were tales of drunkenness, drug addiction, debauchery, and adultery. The frequency of death from natural causes was surprising.

The studio system cleverly co-opted the working press to maintain the actors' carefully crafted public personas. For sustained or better access to famous people, reporters would overlook illegal or even outrageous activities and manipulate the truth..

This captivating book concludes with a thought-provoking note on resources, where Schwarz unveils his research journey spanning over two decades.

The untold stories of Hollywood continued to linger with him over the years. By skillfully blending the voices of those long gone with the resilient, elderly characters who still remember that time vividly, he draws from a rich tapestry of old and new sources.

Through a comprehensive investigation, Schwarz examines a wide range of resources, including fascinating interviews that shed new light on Hollywood's secrets..

He unearths valuable insights from government files, such as the U.S. Senate’s hearings into organized crime led by Kefauver, and he unveils previously undisclosed information through the power of the Freedom of Information Act.

The story within these pages recounts an essential moment in history, as the mob tried to take over Hollywood but encountered a formidable resistance. The entertainment industry's fabric remained intact despite the mob's attempts..

As the final chapter comes to a close, readers will be left with an insightful understanding of the untold stories that have affected Hollywood's past.

The book serves as a tribute to the lasting fascination of Hollywood, and the significance of exposing concealed histories that need to be shared.