The Rise and Reign of Spielberg, Lucas, and Coppola

Paul Fischer's book, _The Last Kings of Hollywood_, centers on a significant event in the film industry: a private flight on November 16, 1977, carrying three of America's most influential directors—Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, and Francis Ford Coppola—to a White House reception hosted by President Jimmy Carter. At this time, Spielberg was celebrated for _Jaws_, Lucas was on the verge of releasing _Star Wars_, and Coppola had already created the iconic _The Godfather_ and its sequel. This moment encapsulates the peak of their careers and the broader cultural shifts in Hollywood.

The Guardian

Each director faced personal challenges that shaped their careers. Coppola and Martin Scorsese, both Italian-American immigrants, dealt with exclusion, while Lucas experienced depression and possible undiagnosed autism. Spielberg confronted antisemitism, feeling like an outsider in the American suburbs he admired. Despite these struggles, they were not subjected to the sexism that hindered many of their female contemporaries, such as screenwriter Nancy Dowd and producer Dawn Steel.

The Guardian

Fischer highlights the contrasting paths of these directors post-1977. Spielberg continued to produce a diverse array of films, including _Schindler’s List_ and _Minority Report_. Coppola, while also successful, remained committed to independent filmmaking, financing projects like _Apocalypse Now_ out of his own pocket. In contrast, Lucas became synonymous with blockbuster franchises, focusing on technological innovation through his company, Lucasfilm.

The Guardian

The book explores the differing philosophies of the three directors regarding the future of filmmaking. Coppola and Lucas sought independence from the studio system, with Coppola's Zoetrope Studios embodying a free-spirited ethos, while Lucasfilm operated with a more commercial focus. Spielberg's DreamWorks, although less storied, aimed to balance mainstream appeal with creative freedom. Fischer suggests that while Spielberg may have won the battle for Hollywood's mainstream, it was Coppola who remained true to independent filmmaking ideals.

The Guardian

Fischer's narrative, while engaging, has been critiqued for its limited scope. Critics argue that it neglects the broader historical context of the film industry, particularly the decline of the 1970s Golden Age, marked by the failure of Michael Cimino's _Heaven's Gate_. This event signaled a shift away from the indulgence of "genius" directors, a critical moment that Fischer's account largely overlooks.

The Guardian

• “It was like bringing an audience to the Mona Lisa and asking: ‘Do you know why she’s smiling?’ ‘Sorry Leonardo, you’ll have to go back and make some changes.’” — George Lucas, Director

The Guardian

• “’” Fischer has produced a really readable, closely researched account of life at Hollywood’s top table – likably presented with the enthusiasm and commitment of a true fan.” — Review Summary

The Guardian

Fischer's _The Last Kings of Hollywood_ provides an insightful look into the lives and careers of Spielberg, Lucas, and Coppola, while also inviting readers to consider the larger forces at play in the evolution of American cinema.

The Guardian