The Elephant to Hollywood

By: Michael Caine

Narrated by: Michael Caine

Length: 10 hrs and 18 mins

Publisher's summary

Charming, engaging, and surprisingly forthright, Michael Caine gives us his insider's view of Hollywood and the story of his brilliant second act.

When he was in his late 50s, Michael Caine believed his glamorous, rags-to-riches Hollywood career had come to an end. The scripts being sent his way were worse and worse. When one script really disappointed, he called the producer to complain about the part. The producer said, "No, no, we don't want you for the lover, we want you for the father."

Salvation came in the unlikely form of his old friend Jack Nicholson, who convinced him to give acting one more shot. What followed was not only an incredible personal transformation but also one of the most radical comebacks in film history. Learning to accept his new role both on camera and in his own life, Caine went on to win his second Oscar, be knighted by the queen, and deliver some of his best performances to date.

Now he shares the spectacular story of his life, from his humble upbringing in London's poverty-stricken Elephant and Castle, his military service, touching marriage and family life, and lively adventures with friends, to legendary meetings with fellow stars, forays as a restaurateur, and hilarious off-screen encounters from his glittering five-decade career. Caine brings his gift for storytelling and his insider's view to a tale that is funny, warm, and deeply honest.

©2010 Michael Caine Business (P)2010 Macmillan Audio

Likeable guy with great story.

Perhaps it's because he is an actor, but the narration is superb. This book made me smile, laugh and thouroughly enjoy myself. I did not know much about Caine before this book, and I definitely respect him more and view him in a different light after reading this book. Worth every penny or worth the credit to buy it. Definitely worth a listen.

My Life in the Movies:No one said it would be easy

Michael Caine, is the "real deal". No pretence. He spins a Good Inspiring Story. Especially reassuring to hear Him, tell His own Life's Story.

Great Story by Michael Caine

So sorry the book ended!
Loved it and highly recommend it to all ages and backgrounds .

Enjoyable, interesting and heartfelt story

I’ve always enjoyed Michael Caine as an actor though knew little about him personally. Although I was of a later generation (born 1969), happily my parents’ interest in movies included his and they rubbed off on me. Through the years I have loved what he brought to his roles, especially Educating Rita, Blame it on Rio, and Dirty, Rotten Scoundrels (which I recently watched with my kids who only recognized him as Batman’s Alfred... now it’s my turn rub off on them!).

In listening to The Elephant to Hollywood, I came to realize that Michael Caine is every bit the decent guy that somehow I thought he might be. What a gentle, funny, loving, thoughtful and generous person - and what a journey and life he has led!

If you enjoy a good story, I’d strongly recommend this book regardless of your familiarity with the author. And though you may sometimes prefer to read a hard copy, this is one book also worth purchasing in audible format because having Michael read it adds a deeper element. He’s got a great voice and is an engaging story teller. To hear Michael talk about his wife and their enduring love (some of my favorite passages) simply wouldn’t be the same if reading from the pages.

Thank you for a lovely book Sir Michael.

Great tales of acting, friendship and love.

I was fascinated by Michael Caine’s story. Born into poverty he had his family’s love and support. He followed his heart and made great friends along the way. He persevered for 20 years before success came.

He had the great good fortune to meet his true love and to marry her straight away.

And he knows everyone!!!

A pleasure!

It was a great pleasure having Michael Caine in the car with me, telling me the fascinating story of his life and cracking jokes. What a great giggle he has!

"Nothing Less Than a Pleasure"

With a surprising talent for mimicry, a winning and warm personality and with dramatic stories to tell, one of Britain's best actors has quickly become one of my all-time favorite narrators.

The opening sections about his childhood in "The Elephant" and World War 2 are more than enough to make the book a must. As with a favorite guest, Michael Caine never tires and appears to enjoy hearing the stories as much as telling them.

Don't miss this. Then get ready to go back to some films you may have missed, or may want to enjoy again.

One of my favorites

Very interesting and entertaining throughout... not one dull moment. Loved Michael Caine's narration. This is one of my all-time favorite audio books.

Delightful raconteur

I heard Caine interviewed on Fresh Air and the book is as much fun as promised. It was a great pleasure to listen to his distinctive voice on a long car ride. From "Alfie" onward Michael Caine has contributed so much to film and popular culture, he deserves to be honored and loved.

Great Listen ....

I loved it! I was sad when it was over ! Micheal Cain tells his own story very well.