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Feature: New book ‘Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg: The Whole Equation’ tells the story of two MGM visionaries
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Jan 24, 2025
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Feature: New book ‘Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg: The Whole Equation’ tells the story of two MGM visionaries

MGM Studios’ —known for their lion mascot who introduced each film with a roar—has a rich history. Join us as we discuss film critic and author Kenneth Turan's new book.

Lion roaring with golden ribbons around it.
"Leo the Lion" - Mascot for the Hollywood film studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
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Amazon MGM Studios
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Feature: New book ‘Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg: The Whole Equation’ tells the story of two MGM visionaries

Moviegoers nowadays might not know much of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios’ history outside of its iconic mascot, a lion who introduced each film with it’s iconic roar. It was an introduction that was meant to prepare viewers for not just a film, but a spectacle. A new book by retired film critic Kenneth Turan shares the studio’s rich history of spectacle through the work of co-founder Louis B. Mayer, and Irving Thalberg, who served as its head of production following MGM’s inception. For this week’s FilmWeek feature, we’ll speak to former film critic Kenneth Turan, about his forthcoming book Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg: The Whole Equation, and give listeners a glimpse as to how they contributed to Hollywood.

“Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg: The Whole Equation” is available for pre-order, and releases February 4th; click here to learn more.

Critics
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Film Critic, FilmWeek
Credits
Host, AirTalk
Associate Producer, AirTalk & FilmWeek
Apprentice News Clerk, FilmWeek