Editorial Note: I received a copy of Chasing Hollywood
in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
Chasing Hollywood by Gerry Rich (pub date: October 13th) is a fascinating memoir that gives readers a front-row seat to what it’s like to work in Hollywood on films that will live on forever. It’s truly a joy to read.
While behind-the-scenes Hollywood stories typically focus on screenwriting, acting, directing, etc., there are plenty of other amazing roles held by people who don’t often get the same attention. After all, behind every beloved movie is a dynamic marketing campaign.
Meet Gerry Rich. He’s the top Hollywood marketing executive behind some of the most memorable films, such as several in the James Bond franchise, and also The Birdcage, Chicago, Iron Man, and so many others. In fact, if I listed all the movies he’s worked on, it would take up almost the entire review!
His memoir, Chasing Hollywood, spans his childhood in St. Louis to his college years in San Diego working to make connections in Hollywood, to finally achieving his dream jobs in Hollywood. You’ll feel like you time-traveled back with Gerry for an unforgettable ride that is also full of some valuable lessons.
It’s one of the most vivid memoirs that I ever read.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Gerry, and he’s an absolute delight. So kind and easy to talk with, and I loved learning about his process for writing his memoir and recording his audiobook. Check out our interview here.
What’s the Story About
Gerry highlights his career, including collaborating with directors like Mike Nichols, Steven Spielberg, and more. He’s worked with incredible people who became like family to him, as well as dealing with the most toxic bosses imaginable during his time at Miramax.
But even during the lows, Gerry is always respectful, and when looking back, he recognizes how those hardships helped him in more ways than he could have anticipated.
Each chapter provides insights for anyone looking to have a fulfilling career, from those just starting out to people who have worked for a long time and could be looking to make a change. Earning the job of your dreams doesn’t mean it will be perfect, and as Gerry shows in his book, there are so many hardships that come into play.
But in the end, if you follow your heart, and work hard, and then even harder, the career you want is attainable.
The Business of Movies
I used to be quite fascinated with the business of making movies and would read Entertainment Weekly, Rolling Stone, etc., for those exclusive interviews about what it was like on a film’s set. So it certainly was fun to read about Gerry’s work in so many films that truly had an impact.
For instance, I remember my parents talking about the Pierce Brosnan-led GoldenEye, and how it was such a big deal that it brought James Bond to a new generation. I still remember kids at school talking about playing the GoldenEye video game. So I loved reading about Gerry’s work in marketing that memorable time in movies.
His time with the Weinstein brothers, he had two different stints, was quite vivid. You can feel the stress of working with them even all these years later. But it was interesting to read just how much Gerry did learn as well. So even in the worst of times for work, you can still find lessons to learn.
In this novel, you get fun mentions of directors and actors and actresses, so if you have an interest in Hollywood, you’ll enjoy those scenes. It never gets gossipy, though, and Gerry is always respectful about how he describes his interactions with some of the most famous people in the world.
St. Louis
Of course, the Hollywood sections are so entertaining to read about. But I have to say, I really adored the beginning of the book when Gerry talked about his upbringing in St. Louis. Even at age 10, he knew he wanted to work in movies.
St. Louis to Hollywood is not only far in distance, but in achievability. It’s not like the movie industry is just waiting for anyone to come by, especially from the Midwest. It’s extremely difficult not only to make this move, but to succeed. But Gerry willed it to happen by working, networking, putting himself out there, and more.
It’s so inspiring to read someone who did not come from privilege find a way to not only make it to the movie business, but have the incredible impact his work did.
Verdict
This is equal parts a memoir of his journey, leadership and marketing tips and lessons, but overall, it’s a story about never giving up on your dreams. Come for the fun Hollywood mentions, but you’ll also be rewarded with both business and life insights.
Through it all, it’s clear that Gerry maintained his humility and dignity in one of the toughest businesses out there. This is a great book for movie lovers and also those looking to achieve the job of their dreams. Gerry’s story shows that it’s possible.
His story is truly about a boy in the Midwest who dreamed big. And made those dreams happen.
For your book clubBook Club Questions for Chasing Hollywood by Gerry Rich
