About this episode
Send us a text Emmy nominated documentary producer, author, and speaker Steven C. Smith joins the podcast to discuss his book MUSIC BY MAX STEINER: THE EPIC LIFE OF HOLLYWOOD’S MOST INFLUENTIAL COMPOSER. During his illustrious career, composer Max Steiner scored over 300 films and was nominated for 24 Academy Awards. We explore Steiner’s career highlights starting with the groundbreaking King Kong (1933), before detailing his work on the beloved “Gone with the Wind” (1939) and the classic “Casablanca" (1942). We then review Max Steiner’s score on two Warner Archive releases in March of 2022, starting with the 1937 version of “A Star is Born” starring Janet Gaynor and Fredric March, and the 1942 James Cagney World War II classic “Captains of the Clouds.” Mr. Smith also touches on Steiner’s positive working relationships with director Michael Curtiz, Warner Bros studio boss Jack Warner, actresses Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, and the relentless David O. Selznick. And we discuss Max Steiner’s tireless efforts on behalf of composer residuals, something that eventually happened toward the end of his career and guaranteed his financial comfort, before briefly touching on Steiner's influence on some contemporary composers and filmmakers. And finally, Mr. Smith provides his opinion on the recent decision by the Academy of Motion Pictures to not broadcast live the Oscar for “Best Original Score” and what that might mean for the future of the broadcast, and what Max Steiner would have thought of this decision. LINKS Steven C. Smith website: www.mediasteven.com Larry Edmunds Bookstore www.larryedmunds.com Max Steiner Book https://www.larryedmunds.com/product-page/music-by-max-steiner-the-epic-life-of-hollywood-s-most-influential-composer Bernard Herrmann Book https://www.larryedmunds.com/product-page/a-heart-at-fire-s-center-the-life-and-music-of-bernard-herrmann The Extras Facebook page The Extras TV YouTube Channel The Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog Group Join our new public Facebook Group for Warner Archive Animation Fans and get the latest update on all the releases. As an Amazon Affiliate, The Extras may receive a commission for purchases through our purchase links. There is no additional cost to you, and every little bit helps us in the production of the podcast. Thanks in advance. Otaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. t im@theextras.tv