Watch Hollywood Without Make-Up

Hollywood Without Make-Up is a 1963 documentary-style film produced and directed by Ken Murray, a comedian, actor, and filmmaker. The film takes you on an intriguing tour of Hollywood during its Golden Era, revealing the real lives of the entertainment industry's stars and personalities behind the scenes. Narrated by Eddie Albert, a renowned actor, and veteran, the film features interviews with a range of Hollywood stars such as June Allyson, Mickey Rooney, and Barbara Stanwyck, who candidly share their personal experiences, struggles, and successes.

The movie is divided into several segments, each showcasing different aspects of Hollywood. The first segment, entitled "The Monster Makers," sheds light on the fascinating artistry of creating makeup effects for horror films. It features interviews with makeup artists such as Jack Pierce, who created the iconic look for Universal's Frankenstein monster, and Bud Westmore, who worked on countless films, including The Phantom of the Opera and Creature from the Black Lagoon.

The second segment, titled "The Dig and Dash Club," reveals the pre-code era of Hollywood, a time when stars found solace in illegal swimming pools that provided them with the privacy to drink, smoke, and indulge in other illicit activities. This segment includes anecdotes from celebrities such as George Raft, who talks about how the "dig and dash" culture allowed him to escape from the paparazzi and enjoy the wilder side of Hollywood's nightlife.

The third segment, "I Remember," features interviews with Hollywood legends, including Mickey Rooney and Gloria Swanson, who share their memories of the early days of silent films. They recall the challenges and rewards of being part of the pioneering era of filmmaking, where sound, color, and special effects had yet to take hold.

The fourth segment, "The Last Laugh," focuses on Hollywood's comedic legends, including WC Fields and Laurel and Hardy. Ken Murray interviews comedians such as Ben Turpin, who described the art of being a gag man, creating laughs on the fly, and staying quick on their feet.

The fifth segment, "The Forgotten Men," reveals the unknown aspects of Hollywood's behind-the-scenes staff. It features interviews with set designers, choreographers, and stunt performers, who share their invaluable contributions to the entertainment industry, but also describe the challenges and risks of working in Hollywood.

This movie is a rare gem, providing viewers with candid insights into Hollywood's early days. Murray's behind-the-scenes documentary format allows the viewer to take a sneak peek into how films are created, from early planning discussions to the film's premiere.

June Allyson's interview is especially touching, as she speaks of her personal struggles with infertility and her dedication to adopt her daughter. She speaks of her passion for helping other families seeking to adopt children from different parts of the world.

Overall, Hollywood Without Make-Up is an insightful and delightful film that explores the less glamorous, yet intriguing side of Hollywood's Golden Age. It showcases the real stories of the people who made movie magic happen, both in front and behind the camera. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves the history of the entertainment industry.

Hollywood Without Make-Up is a 1963 special interest movie with a runtime of 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.