As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride

Actor Cary Elwes shares his experience playing Westley in the 1987 film The Princess Bride. The memoir covers the production process from his casting through the film's completion and eventual rise to cult classic status. Through interviews with cast members, director Rob Reiner, and other key production figures, Elwes reconstructs life on set and behind the scenes. The book includes personal anecdotes, production challenges, and memories from fellow actors including Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, Billy Crystal, and Christopher Guest. The narrative also explores the film's journey from William Goldman's novel to the screen, including details about the sword training, stunt work, and practical effects that brought the fantasy world to life. Photographs and production materials supplement the text. This insider account reveals how dedication, camaraderie, and creative vision combined to create an enduring piece of cinema that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.

Readers describe this behind-the-scenes account as warm and nostalgic, with many noting Elwes' affectionate tone toward his castmates. The audiobook receives particular praise, featuring voice cameos from several cast members. Liked: - Personal anecdotes from filming - Cast and crew's fond memories - Details about sword training and stunt work - Respectful treatment of Andre the Giant - Insights into Rob Reiner's directing style Disliked: - Some repetition of stories - Occasional name-dropping - Too much praise/positivity, lacks criticism - Could be longer/more detailed Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (53,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (7,000+ ratings) Audible: 4.8/5 (15,000+ ratings) One reader noted: "Like sitting down with the cast over coffee to hear their favorite memories." Another mentioned: "Would have preferred more behind-the-scenes drama or conflicts to balance the overwhelmingly positive tone."

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💫 During filming, Andre the Giant was in such physical pain that Robin Wright had to be lowered to him by rope for scenes where he catches her, as he couldn't safely lift her himself. 🗡️ Cary Elwes and Mandy Patinkin trained intensively in fencing for months before and during filming to perform their own sword fighting scenes, learning both left and right-handed techniques. 👑 The book reveals that Billy Crystal improvised most of his lines as Miracle Max, causing such uncontrollable laughter on set that Mandy Patinkin bruised a rib trying to suppress his giggles. 🌟 Rob Reiner told Cary Elwes that he got the role of Westley because he was the only actor who could make "As you wish" sound like "I love you." 🏰 Andre the Giant was known for his legendary drinking capacity, and during filming would often drink multiple pitchers of cocktails at dinner - his typical order consisted of 40 vodka tonics.