David L. Robb

David L. Robb is an American investigative reporter and author known for his coverage of labor unions and the entertainment industry. His work has exposed questionable practices in Hollywood, particularly focusing on safety violations, financial misconduct, and organized crime's influence in the film industry. Robb spent over 20 years as a labor reporter for various publications including The Hollywood Reporter, Daily Variety, and Reuters. His investigative journalism has resulted in multiple revelations about workplace safety violations on film sets and led to reforms in industry practices. His 2004 book "Operation Hollywood: How the Pentagon Shapes and Censors the Movies" examined the relationship between the U.S. military and the film industry, documenting how the Pentagon influences movie content in exchange for access to military assets and locations. The book received attention for its detailed analysis of military involvement in American cinema. Notable among his other works is "The Stuntwoman" (2011), which chronicles the story of Julie Johnson's battle against gender discrimination in Hollywood's stunt industry. Through his books and reporting, Robb has established himself as an authority on Hollywood's behind-the-scenes operations and labor relations.

Readers value Robb's investigative depth and insider knowledge of Hollywood, with many highlighting his detailed research on military influence in filmmaking. Amazon reviewers of "Operation Hollywood" note his thorough documentation and specific examples showing Pentagon involvement in film productions. Readers appreciated: - Extensive use of real examples and documents - Clear explanation of military-entertainment connections - Neutral reporting style - Exposure of previously unknown industry practices Common criticisms: - Writing can be repetitive - Some sections feel padded - Could be more concise - Limited scope beyond military involvement Ratings: - Operation Hollywood: 4.1/5 on Amazon (62 reviews), 3.8/5 on Goodreads (89 ratings) - The Stuntwoman: 4.3/5 on Amazon (15 reviews) One reader noted: "Robb provides evidence rather than conspiracy theories." Another commented: "Important information but could have been condensed into a long article."

Operation Hollywood: How the Pentagon Shapes and Censors the Movies - Examines the U.S. military's involvement in film production, detailing how the Pentagon influences movie content in exchange for access to equipment and locations.

The Stuntwoman - Traces the history of female stunt performers in Hollywood and their fight for recognition, safety standards, and equal opportunities in the film industry.

Special Effects: The History and Technique - Chronicles the development of visual effects in cinema from early practical techniques through the digital age, with technical explanations of major innovations.

The Unions: Hollywood's Other Business - Analyzes the role and evolution of labor unions in the entertainment industry, covering major strikes, negotiations, and their impact on film production.

Peter Lance investigates organized crime and government misconduct through deep investigative journalism. His books about the FBI and mafia share similar themes to Robb's work exposing corruption and cover-ups.

James B. Stewart writes about financial crimes and corporate scandals through detailed research and documentation. His focus on power structures and institutional wrongdoing parallels Robb's examination of Hollywood and labor relations.

David Cay Johnston specializes in reporting on economics, tax policy and labor issues in America's power centers. His investigative work into how systems benefit the powerful connects to Robb's analysis of industry manipulation.

William D. Cohan covers the inner workings of major institutions through extensive source interviews and document analysis. His books about Wall Street share Robb's approach of exposing hidden practices through insider accounts.

Kurt Eichenwald investigates corporate fraud and misconduct through narrative non-fiction based on documents and sources. His work examining corruption in business institutions mirrors Robb's methods of uncovering industry malpractice.