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 DeppI loved this book! OK, I know I am not totally objective when it comes to JD-I think the guy walks on water, but not every author agrees with me. In reading this preface, though, I knew that I would really enjoy this book. Heard says " For his contribution to the art form, Depp deserves respect and admiration, and I intend to show him both." Heard makes no apology for the fact that he is a fan and it is written from that perspective. He is a fan, however, it is not just a collection of quotes from people saying good things about Johnny- he actually tries to give you more depth than is usually the case. It is clear that some of the other books on Johnny were half-hearted attempts written for the sole purpose of making money. The author merely listed facts from the movie or press clippings and made no real attempt to get to the real story or real people behind that story. It is not true with this book. As a journalist and host of TV's Reel to Real, Heard would have learned about the same incidents and "press" about Johnny as the others in the business of reporting on Hollywood. Some have sensationalized incidents in order to sell papers or books. This book, however, is not tabloid journalism. Heard says, "I would rather tell his story as I uncovered it than to take the position of a sniper" (an all too common tactic the press takes with regard to Johnny). Heard actually tries to find out what is behind the headlines. I also enjoy the fact that he adds his own opinions to the mix which makes it a little more interesting reading especially when it comes from an admirer. The book begins with Johnny's birth and continues through events of spring 2001 so it is fairly up-to- date. I like the way the book flows. It is easy to read and not written in an affected way. Many authors and journalists are more concerned that you be impressed with them then in really conveying anything about Johnny. Heard portrays Depp as a person-not simply a movie star. He discusses Depp's surroundings as well as the background of those around him-not just their names. He discusses decisions which were made and often the motives behind them. Frequently, books on stars rely heavily on pictures to fill the pages rather than any substance. This has few pictures. Chapter 8 has a section with 8 full-colored pictures of Johnny with various looks-of course he looks great in all of them. There are also some black and white images scattered throughout the book. However, the focus of the book is on Johnny as an artist not as a coffee table picture book. For those Johnny fans, you may know most of what is in this book, however, it is the best single compilation regarding him. For those of you with friends who don't understand what the fuss is all about, I would suggest you hand them this book!
Chapter One - The Kids Chapter Two - Craven Images Chapter Three - Rumble in the Jungle Chapter Four - Might as Well Jump Chapter Five - Depp and Burton, Burton and Depp - Part 1 Chapter Six - The Low Road Chapter Seven - Depp and Burton, Burton and Depp - Part 2 Chapter Eight - 1410 Chapter Nine - The Icon of Cool Chapter Ten - The Brave Chapter Eleven - Anti-Hero Chapter Twelve - When the Going Gets Weird, the Weird Turn Pro Chapter Thirteen - Leaving Home Chapter Fourteen - Paradis and Paradise in Paris Chapter Fifteen - Depp and Burton, Burton and Depp - Part 2 Chapter Sixteen - Absinthe, Croissants, and Cigarettes
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