Bookish Thoughts: As You Wish by Cary Elwes, Joe Layden

Standing onstage at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, surrounded by cast members and some of the crew, many of whom I've not seen in years, I feel an almost overwhelming sense of gratitude and nostalgia. ~ Opening of As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride

As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride by Cary Elwes, Joe Layden

Audible, 2014

Nonfiction; 7 hrs, 1 min
Source: Purchased for my own reading pleasure.

Goodreads Summary: 

From actor Cary Elwes, who played the iconic role of Westley in The Princess Bride, comes a first-person account and behind-the-scenes look at the making of the cult classic film filled with never-before-told stories, exclusive photographs, and interviews with costars Robin Wright, Wallace Shawn, Billy Crystal, Christopher Guest, and Mandy Patinkin, as well as author and screenwriter William Goldman, producer Norman Lear, and director Rob Reiner.

It was my husband-then-boyfriend's favorite movie, and I had never seen it until after meeting him. I thought it was okay, but nothing special. I fell in love with the soundtrack, however, and would listen to it over and over again. The more I watched The Princess Bride, the more I began to like it. After reading and falling utterly and helplessly in love with William Goldman's book on which the movie is based, I began to love the movie too. It might not have been love at first sight, but it is a lasting love.

The book, As You Wish offers an inside look at the filming, both on and off camera, of The Princess Bride movie from Cary Elwes point of view. He is extremely humble and appreciative of the film and how it helped his career. I am glad I had the opportunity to listen to the audio version, which honestly, is probably the only way I would have taken this one in. It seems to be the right choice too, given all the guest appearances by other crew and stars from the movie.

The Princess Bride did not gain instant success upon release. The marketing department wasn't sure how to market the film and it wasn't until quite a while later that the movie really took off and gained a loyal following. It is not a cult favorite, enjoyed by families through the generations. Hearing about the process and the reactions of those involved with the making of the film was quite interesting.

The book is funny and at times sentimental. It sounds like everyone involved in the movie was well invested and had a great time bringing it together. The author was nervous and, rightfully so given Hollywood's history of translating books to film, but hearing how happy he was with the final project just adds to the greatness of it. From stories about Andre the Giant to learning how to sword fight and the kissing scene with Robin Wright, the Pit of Despair--everything, really--had me smiling and laughing and nodding my head as I listened. And I just love Cary Elwes's voice. Doesn't everyone though?

I watched the film again after finishing the book, having a new appreciation for the cast and their experience. Certain moments stood out like they hadn't before--and yet it was so easy to get lost in the film. . . They really did a seamless job of putting it together. It really is a sweet and funny movie. And it is no wonder this book is a hit among the fans of the movie.

To learn more about author Cary Elwes and his work, please visit his Facebook Page.

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