Sunday 3 January 2021

Chasing the Light by Oliver Stone

 

"I never did figure out how our picture was paid for; it was a secretive poker game among three parties that was way over my head."

In 2017 Oliver Stone visited Sydney as part of the Vivid festival and I was lucky enough to attend his International Game Changer speech and see this master storyteller up close. As a teller of tales Stone is impeccable both in public and in prose. His latest autobiography which commences with his early life up until he turns 40 is fantastic and definitely one to read for fans (as it deals with Platoon, Salvador, Scarface and Midnight Express).

Memoirs are always intriguing in that they are one perspective that sometimes lacks a broader perspective. This is particularly evident here as we embark on interesting anecdotes with a sense that the emotional journey isn't fully explored. Similar to the public speaking engagement, this is a well versed story teller recounting key tales, bouncing here and there and yet seemingly not giving all of himself. One gets the impression that the dark depths of Stone will remain hidden apart from hints here and there.

That is not to dissuade you from reading the book, it is deftly delivered with a behind the scene peek at the downfall of Charlie Sheen for example. Ultimately this plays just like a great film, where you're unsure as to the veracity of the narrator.


4 out of 5 - Stone was a damn good looking kid.



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