Admit One: My Life in Film

By Emmett James

From the book jacket:

“While reflecting fondly on the films that are most memorable to me, I am struck by one pertinent truth (thanks to the 20/20 hindsight of adulthood). That fact is this: A film itself, though unalterable once the physical reel is printed and unleashed, changes continually in the reel of our memory.”

This was a really fun book to read. The author takes us through his life as a movie fan and connects certain anecdotes with some of his favorite movies.

As a young boy, he spent every weekend at the theater, often with his family, and he learned to appreciate the intricacies of films. As he grew up and was able to go on his own (or with a friend), the theater became a regular hangout. It was a place to fantasize about life in general, to take a girl and to run into friends.

By the time he was a teen, he knew he wanted to become an actor. Indeed, he took acting lessons and then, it was off to America – Hollywood in particular – to make a name for himself.

Emmett was in the movie “Titanic” and next time I watch it, I will definitely be looking for him. He was also in several other films and today he works off and on in what he says is “the oldest running soap opera,” although he doesn’t say which one.

He has also produced, taught and directed film, stage and television productions.

I enjoyed his writing. It was very interesting to read, although I thought he got off topic every now and then, taking the story away from the film he was using as an example.

It’s a good book and I think most people would also like it.