This is the first comprehensive history of MGM from its origins in 1905 to the present.
"Tino Balio, pioneering researcher into the structure and conduct of the American film business, offers a sweeping, in-depth account of a studio that is known for Hollywood's most glorious rise and most shameful fall. This book will become a standard reference source on the studio that was for a time the supreme name in movie entertainment."
David Bordwell, University of Wisconsin-Madison
"Tino Balio, the well regarded author of numerous books on the motion picture business, including the definitive two volume history of United Artists, has written the best and clearest history of MGM, the most famous of the motion picture studios during the classical studio era. Drawing upon his extensive knowledge and research over many years, he has by-passed the sensationalistic and anecdotal stories to present a fascinating description of the motion picture business. No one could have done it better."
Steve Jarchow, Regent Entertainment
