Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0670867446 ISBN 13: 9780670867448

Publisher: Viking Adult, 1996

In its first English version, a raw memoir by the celebrated late German actor exposes a tortured childhood spent stealing food in pre-war Berlin, his conscription into the German army, his recognition as an international film star, and his controversial personal life. 35,000 first printing. $35,000 ad/promo.

Review:

This is not a book for the squeamish. Disturbingly violent, sexual, and despairing, it is the autobiographical confession of an eternally restless man. It is the life story of Klaus Kinski, the superb screen actor who died in 1991. Kinski, who played in memorable films by David Lean, Sergio Leone, and Billy Wilder, is best known for his roles in Werner Herzog's Aguirre: The Wrath of God and Nosferatu the Vampyre. With graphic detail, Kinski narrates his excessive sexual exploits and fanatical adoration of his son. This book unravels the pitch-dark inner life of an actor who specialized in playing insane people, a man who well understood the psychology of the characters he portrayed.

Language Notes:

Text: English (translation)
Original Language: German