Blowing the Bloody Doors Off

And Other Lessons in Life

By: Michael Caine

Narrated by: Michael Caine

Length: 6 hrs and 39 mins

Publisher's Summary

Now in his 85th year, Hollywood legend Michael Caine shares wisdom and stories from his remarkable career in this "engrossing" memoir that "shines with positive energy" (Library Journal, starred review). 

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 (the inspiration for the book title) 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 - and "his fans will be rewarded, as will anyone seeking an enjoyable, inspirational read" (Library Journal).

©2018 Michael Caine (P)2018 Hachette Audio

Critic Reviews

"Caine melds candid anecdotes and a master class on acting into an upbeat, unpretentious, and star-studded memoir.... Warm recollections and practical advice from an acclaimed star." (Kirkus Reviews)

wow.

Blew my bloody doors off. The last part gave me goosebumps, and a tear in my eye. So many words and stories to live by. This will definitely NOT be a one time listen. I am now off to revisit his wonderful movies. Thank you, Sir Michael Caine.

Pleasant Surprise. Pleasure experience.

I purchased the book thinking it was a memoir. It is somewhat. But otherwise, it is a kind of generous hat turnover for people in the theater. Nevertheless, being a tri professional, (three different professions), I found his advice about professionalism and professional duty to be universal and applicable everywhere. In every walk of life. His communication skills are very magical and the love for life and others translates into his memories and sound and caring advice. The empathy quality of it all began to envelop me and I felt like I was being coddled with a lullaby. He is very sane and it is apparent rather immediately and this is a comfort in today's world. I loved this book and I will listen to it again. It bought me comfort as no other book ever has. I wish everyone could know a man like Michael Caine. I am at ease.

Combination Memoir and Acting Class

As an actor, Michael Caine has seen and done pretty much everything that a good person and a good actor can do. His pointers on acting are personal and yet apply generally, so that any actor -- even skilled and experienced ones -- can benefit from his experience and counsel. Even if you're not at all interested in acting, however, this book is a wonderful memoir by a wise and kind person who has lived through all that his profession has to offer, including the ups and downs.

He is quite candid about roles he took in films that were not going to be wonderful, ever; he faces head-on the fact that if you only have one skill that will make money for you, and you need money, and they offer you the money you need, the part is going to look better to you, even if you know the movie it is in will not be good. You aren't necessarily going for an Oscar every time.

With Michael Caine performing the book himself (it never sounds like "reading"), it feels as if you've just had a lovely conversation with one of the finest people ever to practice a widely-enjoyed art.

Michael Caine. ...Doors off

I got to know the man. Humble, honest.
He is a very genuine human being. He’s been quite blessed and he fully realizes it.It was a joy to listen to it with him reading the story. I got the Audible because he’s about my age and I could easily relate to the things he said as one gets older. It would be good listening or reading at any age.

Refreshing

I normally listen the suspense / thriller novels but needed a little break so here I am. I must say, listening to Michael Cain speak humbly about his life while giving pointers to promote the success of would-be-actors [that can be easily applied to life in general] was a true pleasure. It is amazing hearing about the places he has been to, the people he's worked with and taking the opportunity to learn from his life experiences. There was not one boring moment nor ho-hum story in the whole book. I was thoroughly entertained.
Highly recommend.

Promises kept ...

Funny, in the opening “Michael” says there are life lessons here and then tells wonderful stories. When it’s done and after being totally entertained I realized, to my surprise, that there WERE life lessons here. Very wonderful.

so enjoyable

I remember shaking my head for "Alfie", trying to follow through with "Sleuth", being surprised by him in "Dressed yo Kill", feeling a tad of pity for him in "Educating Rita", and wanted him to be my butler from "Dark Knight ". I listened straight through. Michael Caine seems a fellow you'd be happy to meet and who would be gracious and happy to meet you. He makes a point to get value from every experience, makes no apologies for opting to for the value of a paycheck when necessary (like making "The Swarm" to buy his mum a house), but does regret not being fully present when he had a young family whilst struggling as he was starting out - like many of us. This book was framed as a primer for young actors, but offers advice for all. I finished it feeling like I learned something. And I like Michael Caine even more now.

What a pleasure!

Michael Caine (a heartthrob for my mother’s generation) is a wonderful actor and tells a candid and beautiful life story full of humor and love and genuine decentness! What a joy and inspiration to know that a balanced individual can navigate the acting world and stay true to himself and his family.

Good stuff

When older people give knowledge keep your ears open. Lots of good gems of advice about life in this book.

Incredible book

This book is beautifully written and narrated by the one and only Michael Caine. This one is something special.