The Princess Bride
There are very few people I know who have not seen or quoted The Princess Bride, a “classic” satirical, fairy-tale adventure film. It is heartwarming, funny, whimsical, sometimes stupid, and sometimes poignant. I love behind the scenes information, so reading As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales From Making The Princess Bride by handsome Westley (Cary Elwes) was right up my alley.
What Does this Memoir Include?
Elwes walks us through:
- the process of getting the Princess Bride going
- how he got his starring role
- how others came to join the project
- how the film was received then and now
- and a whole slew of stories from making their movie.
Interspersed with his narration are little stories and comments from other members of the cast and crew. These provided additional humor and insight into different moments from the movie-making process.
What I Liked & Didn’t
Overall, I enjoyed As You Wish. It made me want to go watch the movie again!
Elwes’ lighthearted tone made it a quick and easy read. The chapters felt a little scattered at times (like we might have one about a specific scene and the next chapter is all about one of the actors, for example). And he seemed to focus in depth on specific parts of the film (maybe his favorites?).
Personally, I would have enjoyed more mention of some other scenes that he didn’t include, but that’s probably more of a preference of mine as opposed to a flaw in his book.
What Stood out to Me Most
While the subject matter and his writing style didn’t wow me, what I found I loved most about this memoir is how fondly Cary Elwes speaks of his time making The Princess Bride.
He is clearly proud of the role, proud of the movie, and still grateful to have been a part of it. I love that.
Similar to Office BFFs, it’s clear he has no problem being known for the role of Westley and that that has followed him throughout the remainder of his career. It means a lot to a fan who loves the movie to see those who made the movie lovable love it too (How’s that for a tongue twister?).
Elwes didn’t share any negatives that “ruined” the movie for me (yay), and I appreciated that too. I’m sure it wasn’t all sunshine and roses making the movie, but you wouldn’t know it from this book.
Final Thoughts on As You Wish
If you love The Princess Bride and want to hear more details from it, give this little collection of memories from the dashing Westley himself a read. You won’t regret it!
Copyright Cary Elwes and Atria Books. Image from Amazon.
I haven’t seen it 😬
Oh dear! You must watch it! It’s a classic. Thanks for reading anyway 🙂
Inconceivable!! 😉🤣
Thanks for the recommendation. Love the movie. One of our whole family’s favorites. And I’ve now downloaded the book. 😉
Great! It’s such a classic. Hope you enjoy the book!