📖 Overview
Cary Elwes is a British actor, producer, and author best known for his leading role as Westley in the 1987 film "The Princess Bride" and his supporting role in "Robin Hood: Men in Tights."
As an author, Elwes wrote the New York Times bestseller "As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride" (2014), which details his experiences during the filming of the cult classic movie. The book combines personal anecdotes with interviews from fellow cast members and behind-the-scenes insights.
Beyond his written work, Elwes has maintained an active career in film and television, appearing in notable productions such as "Saw," "Twister," and "Stranger Things." His acting career spans more than four decades across various genres.
His contribution to both film and literature has established him as a respected figure in entertainment, with his book serving as a valuable documentation of one of cinema's most beloved films. Elwes continues to work in the entertainment industry while occasionally engaging in literary projects.
👀 Reviews
Readers praise Elwes's warm, conversational writing style in "As You Wish," noting how he captures the camaraderie of The Princess Bride cast. Many reviews highlight his humorous behind-the-scenes stories and respect for fellow actors.
What readers liked:
- Personal anecdotes that enhance their appreciation of the film
- Inclusion of other cast members' perspectives
- Clear, engaging narrative voice
- Audio version read by Elwes himself
What readers disliked:
- Some repetition of well-known facts about the movie
- Occasional overly diplomatic tone
- Limited depth on certain production aspects
Ratings across platforms:
Goodreads: 4.2/5 (50,000+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.7/5 (7,000+ ratings)
Audible: 4.8/5 (15,000+ ratings)
One reader noted: "It feels like sitting down with Cary for coffee while he shares memories." Another commented: "The book could have delved deeper into the technical aspects of filmmaking rather than focusing mainly on cast relationships."
📚 Books by Cary Elwes
As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride (2014)
A memoir detailing Elwes' experience filming The Princess Bride, including behind-the-scenes stories and cast interviews.
A Holocaust Survivor's Story with David Rich (2020) A biographical account co-written with David Rich about Holocaust survivor Marthe Cohn, who worked as a spy against Nazi Germany.
Elvis & Me: An Actor's Journey with The King (2023) A personal account of Elwes' work portraying Colonel Tom Parker in a stage production and his research into Elvis Presley's life.
A Holocaust Survivor's Story with David Rich (2020) A biographical account co-written with David Rich about Holocaust survivor Marthe Cohn, who worked as a spy against Nazi Germany.
Elvis & Me: An Actor's Journey with The King (2023) A personal account of Elwes' work portraying Colonel Tom Parker in a stage production and his research into Elvis Presley's life.
👥 Similar authors
Bruce Campbell writes memoirs about his experiences as a B-movie actor and cult film star, focusing on behind-the-scenes stories from his career. His writing style combines personal anecdotes with humor, similar to Elwes's approach in discussing The Princess Bride.
Simon Pegg shares stories from his life in entertainment, particularly focusing on his journey through British comedy and Hollywood films. His memoirs include insights into film production and the entertainment industry from an actor's perspective.
William Goldman writes about his experiences in Hollywood as a screenwriter and novelist, including the book that became The Princess Bride. His works provide detailed looks into the filmmaking process from script to screen.
Dick Van Dyke recounts his decades-long career in entertainment through personal stories and industry observations. His memoirs cover experiences from early television to modern films, with emphasis on production details and cast relationships.
Matthew Perry documents his acting career with focus on both professional achievements and personal challenges. His writing provides insight into life on major productions while balancing humor with candid revelations.
Simon Pegg shares stories from his life in entertainment, particularly focusing on his journey through British comedy and Hollywood films. His memoirs include insights into film production and the entertainment industry from an actor's perspective.
William Goldman writes about his experiences in Hollywood as a screenwriter and novelist, including the book that became The Princess Bride. His works provide detailed looks into the filmmaking process from script to screen.
Dick Van Dyke recounts his decades-long career in entertainment through personal stories and industry observations. His memoirs cover experiences from early television to modern films, with emphasis on production details and cast relationships.
Matthew Perry documents his acting career with focus on both professional achievements and personal challenges. His writing provides insight into life on major productions while balancing humor with candid revelations.