Author Philip Roth.
Writer Philip Roth. best known for his books, Goodbye, Columbus, and Portnoy's Complaint, has won this year's National Book Award for fiction for his new novel Sabbath's Theater. Roth has been criticized in the past for his treatment of Jewish themes. Some readers think his satirical take in his writing is anti-Semitic. His book Portnoy's Complaint, (1969) a sexual autobiography of a young lawyer, was labeled obscene by some because of its descriptions of masturbation and sexual conquest. Though the literary critics liked it, "a deliciously funny book, absurd and exuberant, wild and uproarious." Other books include his autobiography, The Facts, and a portrait of his father, Patrimony: A True Story, (1989) and Operation Shylock. Roth has also edited the Writers from Other Europe series for Penguin Books. (Originally aired 3/10/93)
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Other segments from the episode on November 17, 1995
Remembering Ralph Blane.
Composer and Lyricist Ralph Blane died Monday at the age of 81 at his home in Oklahoma. He is best known for his work with Hugh Martin. Together they wrote songs for Broadway and Hollywood. They are best known for songs in the MGM classic, "Meet Me in St. Louis." That starred Judy Garland and featured the songs "The Trolley Song," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "The Boy Next Door." (Originally aired 10/31/89)
Beatles Doc is Worthy if not Authoritative.
TV Critic David Bianculli previews next week's Beatles documentary. The six hour series features new music by the Beatles. The recordings use archive tape of John Lennon.
Film and Television's Garry Marshall.
TV producer, writer, director and actor Garry Marshall. He's considered a "One man Who's Who" of Television. He's written for The Lucy Show, The Danny Thomas Show, The Tonight Show, The Dick Van Dyke Show, The Jack Parr Show, and Love American Style. He created 14 prime time sitcoms including Happy Days, Laverne & Shirley, Mork & Mindy, The Odd Couple. During one week in 1979, Marshall boasted four of the top five rated TV shows. As a film maker, Marshall directed Beaches, Overboard, Nothing in Common, The Flamingo Kid, Frankie and Johnny and Pretty Woman.
A Liberal Fantasy.
Film Critic Stephen Schiff reviews the new movie "The American President." It was produced and directed by Rob Reiner and stars Michael Douglas and Annette Bening. Also featured are Martin Sheen, Richard Dreyfuss and Michael J. Fox.
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Author Philip Roth
Roth is best known for his books "Goodbye, Columbus" and "Portnoy's Complaint." Since the publication of his first book, Roth has been controversial for his treatment of Jewish themes. Some readers think his satirical take is anti-Semitic. His novel "Portnoy's Complaint," a sexual autobiography of a young lawyer, was labeled obscene by some because of its descriptions of masturbation and sexual conquest.