Quinlans Character Stars Rev And Updated Ed

Quinlan, who is familiar to most film librarians and scholars for his numerous articles and reference guides, has updated his Quinlan's Illustrated Directory of Film Character Actors (1996). It features over 1200 living and dead actors, primarily from the English-speaking world, who made their careers as character actors, those familiar faces who often appear in dozens if not hundreds of feature films without star billing. Although previous editions favored British actors, this one abounds with U.S. personalities, including Steve Buscemi, Janeane Garofalo, and Danny Glover. Arranged alphabetically by last name, each entry includes a black-and-white photo, brief biography (including cause of death, when applicable), and lengthy filmography. The biographical sections are especially pertinent, as they identify character traits (e.g., 'hound dog eyes,' although Quinlan focuses on hair quality more often than not) that help typecast the player. Little-known facts about some of these actors only add to the fun of browsing through the book. Bottom Line Although users will have to leaf through the pages to connect a face with a name, Quinlan's guide is highly recommended for all public and academic libraries.--Anthony J. Adam, Prairie View A&M Univ. Lib., TX 408pg. CAHNERS PUBLISHING, c2004.-