The King of Hollywood opens Monday 24th August at The Water Rats, exploring the story of Douglas Fairbanks. Learn more about what you can expect:
1: What drew you to focus on Douglas Fairbanks’s life?
As a life long Chaplin fan, I was amazed that as the most famous man on the planet, he had written in his autobiography that he only had one true friend, Douglas Fairbanks. I decided to find out more about Doug and was astounded at the impact he had on the entire movie industry as well as Chaplin.
2: What is your favourite Douglas Fairbanks’ film?
My favourite of Doug’s films is The Mark of Zorro. Doug single-handedly invented the action movie genre we still have today and this is the film that inspired Bob Kane to create Batman, using Doug as his template!
3: Do you think that Douglas Fairbanks’ get the recognition her deserves?
It’s heartbreaking that Doug was forgotten after his death in 1939. He established the Academy Of Motion Pictures and the Academy Awards, established the first university degree course in movie making, co founded United Artists and was the first person to put his hands in wet cement outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre!
4: Was there any challenges in exploring Fairbanks’ life within a 50 minute show?
The only problem with Doug’s life was it was more full and exciting than any movie! We chose to focus on his relationships with his second wife, America’s Sweetheart Mary Pickford and his best friend, Chaplin. There’s definitely enough material for a TV series though!
5: How accurate to Fairbanks’ story is the production or was any creative choices taken?
The facts of Doug’s life were so astonishing they didn’t need embellishing. We use a device of Doug being in a form of purgatory until someone comes to vouch for him. On Christmas Day 1977 his best friend appears and together they examine his life.
6: What has been the most enjoyable part about creating The King of Hollywood?
It’s been wonderful to see the reaction of audiences to Doug’s incredible life. “How did I not know this??!” being a frequent comment. For me, presenting Doug’s story filled in many blanks in Chaplin’s life. In Hollywood, Charlie was a bit of a lost soul until Doug befriended him. Charlie’s film output nosedived after 1939 and we finally know why.
The King of Hollywood opens Monday 24th August at The Water Rats. Many thanks to Paul Stone for answering our questions. Book your tickets here!
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