#1375 - Edward Norton

Written by Robert Towne, 'Chinatown' is a critically acclaimed screenplay that tells the story of J.J. Gittes, a private detective who becomes entangled in a complex web of corruption and deceit in 1930s Los Angeles. The story revolves around the manipulation of the city's water supply and involves a cast of characters including Evelyn Mulwray and her father, Noah Cross. The screenplay is renowned for its intricate plot, memorable characters, and influential dialogue, and it won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1975.

L. A. Confidential is a complex and dense crime novel that spans nearly a decade. It follows the lives of three Los Angeles Police Department officers: Edmund Exley, the straight-laced son of a prestigious detective; Jack Vincennes, a celebrity cop who advises on a police TV show; and Bud White, a brutal enforcer with a traumatic past. The story begins with the 'Bloody Christmas' police brutality scandal and escalates into a massive conspiracy involving a mass murder at the Nite Owl coffee shop, organized crime, political corruption, heroin trafficking, pornography, and the dark underbelly of Hollywood. The novel is known for its unique style, using clipped sentences and a stream of consciousness narrative that immerses the reader in the gritty and corrupt world of 1950s Los Angeles.

Barry Morrow's "Rain Man" is a film that tells the story of Charlie Babbitt, a self-centered businessman who discovers he has an autistic savant brother, Raymond. The film explores themes of family, acceptance, and the challenges of autism. Dustin Hoffman's performance as Raymond is particularly noteworthy, earning him an Academy Award. The film's emotional depth and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships have made it a classic.

In '1999: The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times', Ross Benes explores how cultural phenomena from the late 1990s continue to shape American society, politics, and economy today. The book examines the lasting impact of low culture, from professional wrestling to reality TV, and its influence on contemporary issues like politics and technology.

The play revolves around Blanche DuBois, who, after a series of personal losses, including the loss of her family home and her job as an English teacher due to a scandal, moves to New Orleans to live with her younger sister Stella and her husband Stanley. The tension between Blanche and Stanley, fueled by their contrasting backgrounds and desires, leads to a tragic confrontation. The play explores themes of desire, reality vs. fantasy, and the decline of the Old South, set against the vibrant and tumultuous backdrop of New Orleans' French Quarter in the post-World War II era.

In 'Motherless Brooklyn', Jonathan Lethem tells the story of Lionel Essrog, a private investigator with Tourette's syndrome, who works for a small-time detective agency in Brooklyn. After his mentor, Frank Minna, is murdered, Lionel sets out to solve the crime, navigating through a complex web of gangsters, corruption, and personal relationships. The novel is praised for its unique protagonist, intricate plot, and Lethem's vivid portrayal of Brooklyn in the late 1990s. It won the National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction in 1999 and the 2000 Gold Dagger award for crime fiction.

The novel follows an unnamed protagonist struggling with insomnia and a meaningless corporate job. He finds relief by attending cancer support groups, but his life changes when he meets Tyler Durden, a mysterious and charismatic figure. Together, they establish an underground fight club, which evolves into 'Project Mayhem', a cult-like organization aimed at dismantling modern society through chaos and public unrest. The book explores themes of toxic masculinity, consumerism, and the search for meaning in a postmodern world.

The Rainmaker is a play written by Steve Chimombo, published in 1978. It is one of his notable works, reflecting his contribution to Malawian literature. Chimombo's writing often incorporated elements of mythology, oral culture, and political themes, making his works significant in the context of African literature.

This book is a monumental biography of Robert Moses, who was the single most powerful man in New York City and State during his time. It explores how Moses accumulated and wielded power, shaping the city through his public works projects, including highways, bridges, and parks. The book delves into Moses's early life, his idealistic beginnings, and his transformation into a powerful figure who dominated New York's politics without ever being elected. It also highlights the social and environmental impacts of his projects and his eventual fall from power. The biography is renowned for its detailed and nuanced portrayal of power dynamics in urban politics.

Shōgun is a historical novel that chronicles the end of Japan's Azuchi-Momoyama period and the dawn of the Edo period. The story centers around John Blackthorne, an English navigator who becomes shipwrecked in Japan and becomes embroiled in the complex political dynamics of the region. Blackthorne must navigate a foreign culture, learn the language, and adapt to the customs of feudal Japan, all while being caught in the midst of a power struggle between powerful daimyōs, particularly Toranaga and Ishido. The novel explores themes of cultural clash, adaptation, political intrigue, and personal transformation, providing a vivid portrayal of the collision between Eastern and Western cultures.

Published in 1969, 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo is a crime novel that follows the story of the Corleone family, one of the Five Families of the New York Mafia. The novel spans from the early life of Vito Corleone to the rise of his youngest son, Michael, as the new Don. The story explores themes of loyalty, power, and violence as the family navigates internal conflicts, external threats, and the transition of leadership. Michael, initially reluctant to join the family business, becomes deeply involved after an assassination attempt on his father and eventually succeeds Vito as the head of the family. The novel is known for its realistic portrayal of organized crime and its impact on the characters' personal lives.

In 'Keeping the Faith', Brenda Wineapple delves into the early years of the twentieth century to illuminate the pivotal 1925 Scopes trial. This trial, which captivated the nation, exposed profound divisions in America over issues such as the meaning of freedom, religion, education, censorship, and civil liberties. The book focuses on the legal showdown between Clarence Darrow and William Jennings Bryan, and it explores how these conflicts continue to resonate in contemporary America. Wineapple also examines the broader historical context, including racism, intolerance, and the rise of fundamentalism, and how these factors intersected with the debate over evolution and its teaching in public schools.

Written around 1603, 'Othello' is a tragedy that delves into the destructive nature of jealousy and the vulnerability of trust in relationships. The play follows Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, whose marriage to Desdemona is manipulated by his ensign Iago, leading to tragic consequences. Iago exploits Othello’s insecurities about his race and marriage, sowing seeds of doubt that ultimately result in the death of Desdemona and Othello's own downfall. The play is renowned for its exploration of racial and cultural issues, as well as its nuanced portrayal of human nature and the complexities of love and trust.

Macbeth is a tragedy that explores themes of power, ambition, and the consequences of sin. The play follows Macbeth, a Scottish nobleman, and his wife Lady Macbeth as they navigate a complex web of prophecy, murder, and political intrigue. The witches' prophecy sets off a chain of events that leads to the downfall of Macbeth and the restoration of order in Scotland. The play is known for its dark and haunting atmosphere, its exploration of the human psyche, and its commentary on the nature of tragedy and the human condition.

This deluxe volume celebrates the creation and legacy of David Simon’s landmark series 'The Wire'. It includes exclusive interviews with Simon and key cast and crew members, such as Idris Elba, Wendell Pierce, and Ed Burns. The book also features commentary and essays from notable writers, including D. Watkins, and is illustrated with striking visuals from the show, including concept art and behind-the-scenes images.

American History X is a 1998 neo-noir crime drama film written by David McKenna and directed by Tony Kaye. The film stars Edward Norton as Derek Vinyard, a former neo-Nazi skinhead who is released from prison and attempts to leave his violent past behind. The film explores themes of racism, hate, and redemption, and is considered a classic of the genre.

This collection offers a wide range of Dorothy Parker's works, including her famous short stories and poems, as well as essays and journalism. It provides a rich insight into her life and literary contributions, showcasing her wit and depth as a writer.

The French Connection is a true crime book that follows the investigation by New York City detectives Eddie Egan and Sonny Grosso as they uncover a large drug trafficking operation involving French heroin traffickers. The book provides a detailed look into the intricate drug trafficking network and the relentless efforts of law enforcement to curb it. It was adapted into a successful film in 1971.

In 'Reds: The Tragedy of American Communism', Maurice Isserman provides a balanced and definitive account of the Communist Party USA. Founded in 1919, the CPUSA fought for social justice and equality while maintaining ties to the Soviet Union, leading to its eventual decline. The book offers a nuanced exploration of the party's contributions and contradictions within the broader context of American radical politics.

Julian Barry's play 'Lenny' is a biographical drama that explores the life and words of comedian Lenny Bruce. The play was adapted into a film in 1974, directed by Bob Fosse and starring Dustin Hoffman and Valerie Perrine. The film received several Oscar nominations, including Best Adapted Screenplay for Barry.

No Direction Home is an anthology of science fiction stories by Norman Spinrad, featuring tales like 'No Direction Home', which depicts a drug dystopia, and 'Sierra Maestra'. The collection includes narratives about a violent rock group inciting a nuclear blast craze and a man transported to a ghastly world by lightning. These stories reflect Spinrad's characteristic blend of social commentary and speculative fiction.

Thor is a fictional character in Marvel Comics, created by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Larry Lieber. He first appeared in Journey into Mystery #83 in 1962. Thor is the god of thunder and wields the powerful hammer Mjolnir, which can only be lifted by those deemed worthy. He is a key member of the Avengers and has been featured in numerous comic book series and adaptations.

This book provides a detailed narrative of Senator Thomas J. Dodd's rise to prominence and his subsequent fall from grace. It explores the ethical issues surrounding his career, including investigations and censure by the Senate. The book offers insights into the political climate of the time and the challenges faced by Dodd during his tenure.

The Irishman follows the experiences of Paddy Doolan, an Irish horse wagoner, and his son Michael in the Gulf Country of north-eastern Australia. The novel captures the challenges faced by a remote community as it adapts to technological changes in the early 20th century. It is both a personal coming-of-age story and a broader exploration of societal transformation.