This fascinating book reveals how the major studios from the 1930s through the 1950s manufactured movie stardom, shaping public image, crafting on-screen personas, and building the illusion of glamour that captivated audiences.

Basinger reveals the inner workings of the talent scouts, publicity agents, and directors behind the dream factory, along with the actors who maneuvered through its dazzling yet challenging system. From Clark Gable to Judy Garland, these stars achieved icon status intentionally, not by chance.

Paired with the exhibition Backstage Hollywood: The Photography of Bob Willoughby, this Exhibit Reads invites you to explore the artistry, labor, and intrigue behind classic cinema.

Join us on Saturday, December 5th, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM for a lively discussion of The Star Machine, an insider’s look at Hollywood’s golden era, and an illuminating conversation about how the studio system turned ordinary people into legends.

Purchase your copy at the Museum Store!