Book SummaryKillin' Generals, by Dwayne Epstein

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Killin' Generals

The narrative unfolds, centering on "The Dirty Dozen."

The journey of composing the narrative and establishing its context

This segment of the narrative explores how E.M. Nathanson's own background shaped his method of creating "The Dirty Dozen." The book's development was significantly influenced by his unique history and meticulous investigative methods.

Nathanson's formative years as a writer were influenced by his upbringing in an orphanage.

Nathanson's formative period stood out as markedly atypical. Epstein unveils aspects of his formative years, such as his time spent in a Jewish orphanage that was initially established in Manhattan and subsequently relocated to what is known as the Hebrew National Orphan Home in Yonkers. Nathanson often reminisced with affection about his time working on the agricultural lands of the orphanage in Yonkers, despite his unique upbringing. At the age of eleven, his passion for writing flourished as he started to write articles for the newspaper at the orphanage, which he regarded as his own home. His early ventures into journalism proved to be of immense value for his subsequent literary pursuits.

His Wednesday evening visits to the orphanage became much more enjoyable due to the screenings of movies he attended there. Nathanson held a special fondness for the dynamic and lively films that featured Errol Flynn. After these exciting adventures, Nathanson fondly remembered creating impromptu blades with his friend to play out their most beloved moments. His distinctive style was shaped in part by this initial encounter with the compelling force of narrative and storytelling.

Practical Tips

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Nathanson's Investigation explores the actual occurrences that served as the inspiration for the film "The Dirty Dozen."

After completing his military service as World War II was ending, he sharpened his storytelling skills while working for Fairchild Publications in New York City. Before moving to California to be with his wife and family, Nathanson wrote for various publications that concentrated on criminal justice and also contributed articles to The Washington Post. During that time he became friends with Russ Meyer, a former staff sergeant in the army who had filmed some remarkable footage during World War II. Meyer was tasked with filming a select group of twelve US Army detainees who were undergoing training for a clandestine operation. Meyer dubbed the condemned inmates "the Dirty Dozen," offering them an opportunity to sabotage the efforts of the German military and thereby redeem themselves. Nathanson's inquisitiveness prompted him to think about writing a factual narrative that would focus on Meyer's daring adventures, utilizing his access to military archives and the Pentagon Library's assets extensively. After a thorough investigation that spanned two years, he could not uncover any evidence related to Meyer's Dirty Dozen.

Practical Tips

• Start a blog or podcast discussing the challenges and opportunities of shifting careers post-service. This platform allows you to connect with others who have made similar transitions and share advice. You could interview professionals who have successfully moved from military to civilian roles, providing real-life examples and actionable tips for your...

Killin' Generals Summary The process of adapting the screenplay and producing the film.

This section explores the myriad challenges faced during the adaptation of "The Dirty Dozen" for the silver screen. The book explores the changes made to the script, discussions surrounding the extent of content that could be included, and the assembly of a distinguished cast, all orchestrated by the renowned director Robert Aldrich.

Turning the book into a film presented numerous obstacles.

Epstein highlights the numerous challenges faced by the group tasked with transforming Nathanson's novel into a motion picture. The screenwriters involved in the project felt increasing pressure due to the strict censorship rules of the film industry, which demanded many alterations, stemming from the author's discontent with the initial screenplay.

The screenplay's first draft, penned by Henry Denker, failed to satisfy Nathanson's standards.

During the early development phase, producer William Perlberg enlisted the expertise of seasoned scriptwriter Henry Denker to adapt Nathanson's original work into a screenplay. Epstein emphasizes Nathanson's view that Denker's script did not meet the anticipated standards. During a crucial moment, Denker observed the savage attack by The...

Killin' Generals Summary The movie's critical acclaim and financial performance

The film's premiere was met with a mixed critical reception and its commercial success exceeded expectations. Opinions among critics were split regarding the film's explicit violence, but audiences appreciated it for its entertainment quality.

The film elicited polarized opinions, as reviewers condemned its overtly violent content.

This segment of the narrative scrutinizes the film's critical reception, highlighting the polarized views, especially in relation to its depiction of brutality. The conversation also delves into the question of whether "The Dirty Dozen" serves as a critique of warfare or an endorsement of belligerent conduct.

The New York Times' columnist Bosley Crowther delivered a scathing review.

Upon its initial release, "The Dirty Dozen" elicited a wide array of reactions from critics. The New York Times critic Bosley Crowther expressed his disapproval of the film's depiction of violence and its apparent endorsement of a dangerous, gangster-like mentality. European observers, while recognizing the harshness, also perceived a deep depiction of the human cost inflicted by war in the films.

Context

• Known for his conservative views on film...

Killin' Generals Summary The film's lasting impact and legacy.

This section delves into how The Dirty Dozen's lasting impact has molded subsequent cinematic works and genres, resulting in numerous remakes and works that draw inspiration from it.

The movie's impact on action and war-related genres

"The Dirty Dozen" has established a legacy that endures beyond its monetary success, as noted by Epstein. During the late 1960s, a period marked by increasing distrust of authority figures, particularly because of the Vietnam War, the movie's World War II backdrop resonated with audiences. The characters' cynicism toward authority figures, their overt disregard for the established procedures of the armed forces, coupled with the movie's conclusion which appears to justify their actions, mirrored the prevailing societal sentiments and paved the way for future works such as MASH, Kelly's Heroes, and the television show Garrison's Gorillas.

The book portrays war with a perspective that is relentlessly harsh, profoundly skeptical, and situated within a moral ambiguity.

The film also challenged traditional notions of what it means to be a hero. The individuals central to the narrative were far from virtuous, propelled by complex and often...