Book: Olivier

Introduction
"Olivier" is a bio of prominent British actor Sir Laurence Olivier, composed by Anthony Holden and published in 1988. The book details the life and profession of among the most distinguished stars of the 20th century, who was also an accomplished director, producer, and theater manager. Olivier is understood for his diverse range of functions and his ability to immerse himself fully into each character. The biography explores this skill, in addition to the individual battles, relationships, and accomplishments of Olivier's life.

Early Life and Career
Laurence Olivier was born on May 22, 1907, in Dorking, Surrey, England. His daddy was a clergyman, and his mom, who passed away when he was 12 years old, was an amateur actress. Olivier's fascination with acting started in youth, and he was encouraged by his daddy to pursue his passion. At 17, he got a scholarship to the Central School of Speech and Drama in London.

Olivier's professional acting career began when he signed up with the Birmingham Repertory Company in 1926. He then transitioned to London's West End and performed in different Shakespearean plays, which developed him as a reputable star. In 1930, he made his screen launching in the British movie "The Temporary Widow". This led to Hollywood offers, and his career took off when he starred in "Wuthering Heights" (1939), for which he got his very first Academy Award nomination.

The Second World War and Acclaim
During World War II, Olivier worked as a pilot in the Royal Navy, and also carried out in a series of patriotic films, including "Henry V" (1944) - his directorial debut. The movie was a substantial accomplishment for Olivier, earning him numerous awards, consisting of an unique Academy Award for impressive accomplishment as a star, manufacturer, and director. This success propelled him into the worldwide spotlight and solidified his credibility as one of the finest stars of his generation.

Throughout his career, Olivier was understood for his intense commitment to his craft and his ability to change entirely into the characters he represented. He continued to gain critical recognition for his functions in movies such as "Hamlet" (1948) and "Richard III" (1955), in addition to his performances on the phase in plays such as "Othello" and "Macbeth".

The National Theatre Years
In 1963, Olivier was selected the first artistic director of the National Theatre in London, where he ushered in a new era of British theater. He played a crucial function in the development of the National Theatre, recruiting skilled stars and directors, and overseeing the theater's move to its permanent home on the South Bank of the River Thames.

While at the National Theatre, Olivier continued to perform, most especially in the title role of "Othello" and as the tragic James Tyrone in Eugene O'Neill's "Long Day's Journey into Night". He resigned from the National Theatre in 1973, but his influence on the institution continued long after his departure.

Personal Life, Final Years, and Legacy
Throughout his life, Olivier had a complex individual life. He was wed three times, initially to starlet Jill Esmond, then to the legendary Vivien Leigh, and lastly to starlet Joan Plowright. Anthony Holden explores the intricacies of these relationships and how they impacted Olivier's life and profession, particularly his turbulent marriage to Vivien Leigh.

In his later years, Olivier suffered from many health concerns, including chronic neck and back pain and disease, however he continued working, earning his last Academy Award election for his performance in "The Boys from Brazil" (1978). He died on July 11, 1989.

"Olivier" is a gripping bio of a complex male who had a significant impact on the worlds of theatre and film. Anthony Holden is successful in capturing the essence of Olivier's life and the incredible passion that drove him to become one of the most popular stars in history.