Book review – “United Artists: the Company the Changed the Film Industry” by Tino Balio

Brilliant book about the history of UA from 1950 onwards, the Krim-Benjamin era when UA went from near destruction to being one of the leaders in the industry. Written with great skill and research (though it is never dense), it covers the key moments in the studio’s history: the precursor at Eagle Lion, the growth of independent production companies, HHL, Edward Small, Kramer, the Bonds, the Mirisch Company, Woodfall, the 70s with its European influence, the departure of the big five, the debacle of Heaven’s Gate. A great company who’s time passed but which left lessons that can still be learned from today.