This episode delves into the enigmatic world of iconic figures from Hollywood’s golden era, exploring the complex interplay between their dazzling public personas and their private struggles. Wolf Mankowitz shares poignant insights from his personal and professional relationships with stars like Peter Sellers and Richard Burton. Through his stories, we see the psychological burdens and identity crises that often accompany stardom, highlighting the steep personal cost of fame.

Key Topics Discussed:

Iconic Actors and Their Personal Struggles:

• Richard Burton: His battle with alcoholism, the complexities of his relationships, and his immense talent.
• Alec Guinness: Known for his luminous talent but lived a life of personal demons and extravagant lifestyles.
• Richard Harris: His struggle with alcoholism and his unpredictable behavior on set, particularly during the filming of an Israeli movie.

Unmade Films and Creative Aspirations:

• Discussions on numerous film projects that never materialized, providing insight into the challenges and sacrifices of the creative process.
• The impact of personal lives on professional commitments, and how these often led to abandoned projects.

Peter Sellers and Professional Betrayal:

• Collaboration on “The Millionairess”: The successful partnership between Wolf and Sellers, highlighting their initial plans and the success of the film.
• Sellers’s Eccentricity: His infatuation with Sophia Loren and the subsequent breakdown of his personal life.
• Professional Fallout: The eventual collapse of their partnership, leaving Wolf to deal with the fallout of unfulfilled commitments.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, Gerald Davis’s son, who discovered and digitized the tapes.
• Historical Context: The conversations were recorded in 1997*, providing a snapshot of the lives and thoughts of these creative minds during that period.
• Cultural Significance: This episode captures the essence of a bygone era in film and theater, offering timeless insights into the pressures and vulnerabilities faced by some of its most legendary figures.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

Delve deep into the cinematic and theatrical worlds that shaped the legacies of iconic figures like Orson Welles, Federico Fellini, and John Huston. Wolf shares intimate reflections and anecdotes about these towering figures, offering a glimpse into their struggles, triumphs, and the often tumultuous relationship between art and commerce.

Key Topics Discussed:

Orson Welles’s Artistry and Struggles:

• Unparalleled Artistry: Wolf discusses Welles’s discipline, directorial prowess, and the indelible mark he left on filmmaking.
• Challenges with Hollywood: Insights into the suppression of “Citizen Kane” and the difficulties Welles faced with the Hollywood system.
• Personal Accounts: Stories of Welles’s creative processes, financial struggles, and his attempts to complete projects like “Don Quixote.”

Legends of Cinema: Federico Fellini and John Huston:

• Federico Fellini: Exploration of Fellini’s uncontrollable genius and his impact on cinema.
• John Huston: Wolf’s experiences working with Huston, highlighting his compulsive gambling, charming personality, and the financial challenges he faced.

Personal and Professional Anecdotes:

• Moby Dick Production: Wolf shares the story of producing “Moby Dick” with Orson Welles in London, including the financial and logistical challenges.
• Laurence Olivier: Reflections on working with Olivier on productions like “Rhinoceros,” and insights into Olivier’s artistic motivations and performance style.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, Gerald Davis’s son, who discovered and digitized the tapes.
• Historical Context: The conversations were recorded in 1997*, offering a glimpse into the personal and professional lives of these creative minds during that period.
• Cultural Significance: This episode captures the essence of the golden era of cinema and theater, providing timeless insights into the pressures and vulnerabilities faced by some of its most legendary figures.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

In this episode, we have a double feature of sorts, we explore the vibrant tapestry of London’s past and the glamorous yet gritty world of 20th-century cinema and theatre through the life of Wolf Mankowitz. First, we visit the East End of London, delving into the immigrant community’s resilience and Wolf’s early ventures in commerce. Then, we transition to his illustrious career in Hollywood, highlighting his storytelling prowess and enduring influence on cinema.

Key Topics Discussed:

Life in London’s East End:

• Cultural Melting Pot: Wolf recounts the diverse and resilient immigrant communities, particularly the Jewish and Irish populations.
• Family Hardships and Resilience: Stories of his family’s struggles, early experiments in commerce, and the vibrant yet challenging environment of East End London.
• Influence of Literature: Wolf’s father’s passion for books and his own early dealings with stamps and other goods, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit that shaped his career.

Transition to the Entertainment Industry:

• Navigating Theater and Film: Insights into Wolf’s impact on the entertainment industry, from launching the careers of iconic actors like Sean Connery and Michael Caine to his role in screenwriting and production.
• Behind the Scenes of James Bond: Anecdotes about the making of “Dr. No” and the creative processes involved in shaping the early James Bond films.
• Collaborations and Challenges: Wolf’s experiences working with notable figures like Joan Littlewood and the difficulties of balancing creativity and commerce in the film industry.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, Gerald Davis’s son, who discovered and digitized the tapes.
• Historical Context: The conversations were recorded in 1997*, providing a glimpse into the personal and professional lives of these creative minds during that period.
• Cultural Significance: This episode captures the essence of early 20th-century London and the golden age of cinema, offering timeless insights into the pressures and vulnerabilities faced by some of its most legendary figures.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

Wolf shares his unique experiences of surviving the chaos of war with minimal involvement, navigating the dangerous coal mines, and stumbling upon unexpected roles in the diplomatic world. His stories, filled with humor and resilience, offer a fascinating glimpse into how one man’s quiet determination and adaptability shaped his extraordinary life.

Key Topics Discussed:

Surviving World War II:

• Minimal Participation: Wolf humorously recounts his attempts to participate in the war as little as possible, likening himself to the Spike Milligan brigade.
• Wartime Roles: From being a deferred student at Cambridge to volunteering as a coal miner (Bevan Boy), and eventually finding his way into the military, Wolf’s stories highlight the randomness and absurdity of military life.
• Personal Anecdotes: Tales of navigating dangerous coal mines, using wit to survive military training, and the inventive methods to visit his wife in London during the war.

Transition to Diplomacy:

• Diplomatic Ascendancy: The second conversation details Wolf’s surprising rise to becoming an honorary consul for Panama, highlighting his work with Lawrence Harvey and their endeavors in Panama.
• Film and Cultural Diplomacy: Wolf’s involvement in making a film about the Kuna Indians, navigating the complexities of international finance, and his contribution to promoting Irish products like Kerrygold butter and Irish whiskey in Panama.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, Gerald Davis’s son, who discovered and digitized the tapes.
• Historical Context: The conversations were recorded in 1997*, providing a snapshot of Wolf’s unique experiences during World War II and his later involvement in diplomacy.
• Cultural Significance: This episode offers a humorous and insightful look at the absurdities of war and the unexpected paths life can take, showcasing Wolf’s resilience and wit in navigating diverse challenges.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

Explore the trickster archetype in art and literature. Dive into Mankowitz’s creative process as he shares captivating stories and insights with Gerald Davis. Discover the magic behind storytelling, the influence of historical contexts, and the pragmatic realities of living as an artist. Join us on a journey through creative evolution, artistic deception, and the enduring legacy of art.

Key Topics Discussed:

Creative Processes and Inspiration:

• Instant Ideas: Wolf discusses how some of his story ideas, such as those for “Raspberry Rife” and “The Earth Called Fire,” came to him in a flash and were developed quickly.
• Complex Novels: The development of more complex works like “Gioconda” and “Exquisite Cadaver,” exploring themes of modern art and trickery.
• Art and Trickery: The concept of the artist as a trickster, using creativity and magic to surprise and engage the audience.

Pragmatic Realities of an Artistic Life:

• Living as a Writer: Wolf reflects on his successful career as a writer, the necessity of adaptability, and the role of pragmatic decisions in sustaining his livelihood.
• Art and Commerce: The balance between artistic integrity and commercial success, and the impact of modern technology on the creative process.
• Sophistication and Naivety: The blend of worldly knowledge and artistic passion that defines Wolf’s approach to both life and art.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, Gerald Davis’s son, who discovered and digitized the tapes.
• Historical Context: The conversations were recorded in 1997*, providing a snapshot of Wolf’s unique experiences and insights into the creative process.
• Cultural Significance: This episode captures the essence of the artistic journey, offering timeless insights into the challenges and triumphs of living a creative life.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

This episode takes us on a journey from the bustling streets of London to the serene landscapes of Ireland, exploring how his environment shaped his artistic journey and personal growth. Wolf shares his experiences escaping the pressures of the film industry, his reflections on class and Jewish identity, and his contributions to the Irish film scene. Along the way, we uncover personal stories, historical references, and cultural discussions that paint a vivid picture of a life lived on the move.

Key Topics Discussed:

Escape to Ireland:

• Seeking Solace: Exhausted from the demands of the film industry, Wolf moved to Ireland to escape tax troubles and find peace. He initially settled in Dublin before moving to West Cork.
• Creative Renewal: The tranquil environment of Ireland provided Wolf with the rest and relaxation he needed, which in turn revitalized his writing and creative endeavors.

Life in Ireland:

• Integration and Contributions: Wolf reflects on how he integrated into Irish life, contributed to the local film industry, and made significant cultural impacts, such as creating the first Jewish-themed film in Ireland, “The Hebrew Lesson.”
• Issues of Class and Identity: Wolf offers nuanced perspectives on class and his Jewish identity, discussing the differences he experienced between England and Ireland.

Adventures Beyond Ireland:

• Professional Ventures: Wolf recounts his professional experiences in France and Africa, highlighting his work on successful films like “The 25th Hour” and “Trapeze,” as well as his contributions to international cultural exchanges.
• Navigating Challenges: He shares stories of working with film legends, handling international challenges, and the often perilous pursuit of stories that defined his career.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, Gerald Davis’s son, who discovered and digitized the tapes.
• Historical Context: The conversations were recorded in 1997*, providing a glimpse into Wolf’s life and career transitions.
• Cultural Significance: This episode highlights the resilience and adaptability of an artist navigating personal and professional challenges, offering timeless insights into the transformative power of environment and the pursuit of creative fulfillment.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

This episode delves into Wolf’s transition from narrative storytelling to the abstract realms of Dadaism and surrealism. Highlighting how art became a therapeutic lifeline for him, the episode explores themes of mortality, creativity, and the unpredictable intersections of life and art. With vivid anecdotes and reflections, Wolf shares his late-life ventures into visual arts, emphasizing the profound impact of unconscious creativity and the beauty found in chaos.

Key Topics Discussed:

Transition to Visual Arts:

• Discovery of Dadaism: Wolf discusses how he stumbled upon Dadaism while working on his penultimate book, “Exquisite Cadaver,” and how this discovery opened a new world of artistic expression for him.
• Therapeutic Creativity: The shift from writing to visual arts provided Wolf with a lifeline during challenging times, helping him navigate aging and illness through the therapeutic process of creating art.

Principles of Dadaism and Surrealism:

• Unconscious Creativity: Wolf delves into the importance of unconscious creativity and the impact of accidental art, emphasizing the beauty found in chaos and the unpredictability of artistic expression.
• Role of Art in Life: He reflects on how art has been a constant in his life, not just as a career but as a fundamental part of his being, sustaining him through various challenges.

Challenges and Reflections:

• Energy and Concentration: Wolf talks about the difficulties he faced in continuing to write due to a lack of energy and concentration, leading him to explore new forms of art.
• Creative Process: He shares insights into his creative process, from the initial excitement and rapid production of artworks to the slower, more deliberate completion of pieces in recent years.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, Gerald Davis’s son, who discovered and digitized the tapes.
• Historical Context: The conversations were recorded in 1997*, providing a glimpse into Wolf’s late-life artistic journey and the therapeutic role of art.
• Cultural Significance: This episode highlights the transformative power of art, illustrating how embracing new forms of creativity can provide solace and meaning, especially in the face of life’s challenges.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

In this episode of “Conversations on the Art of Living: The Davis Mankowitz Tapes,” the discussion pivots around the impactful legacy of Alexander Korda, a pioneering figure in British cinema. Wolf and Gerald Davis explore Korda’s significant contributions to the film industry, emphasizing his ability to nurture talent and his lasting influence on filmmaking. Through personal anecdotes, Wolf paints a vivid picture of Korda’s charismatic and powerful personality, his creative spirit, and his impressive but often overlooked legacy.

Key Topics Discussed:

Legacy of Alexander Korda:

• Influence in British Cinema: Korda’s pioneering role in shaping British film is discussed, including his ability to foster talent and produce groundbreaking works.
• Personal Anecdotes: Wolf shares stories that highlight Korda’s generosity, creativity, and the profound impact he had on those around him.
• Charismatic Leadership: Korda’s larger-than-life personality and his luxurious lifestyle are depicted, showcasing his charm and influence.

Personal and Professional Reflections:

• Financial Landscape of Filmmaking: The conversation shifts to the economic aspects of the film industry, comparing the financial highs and lows of the 1950s to the present day.
• Economic Challenges: Wolf and Gerald candidly discuss the financial struggles and successes in the creative industry, providing a realistic view of the economic pressures faced by filmmakers.

Cultural and Historical Context:

• Impact on Propaganda Films: Korda’s involvement in making propaganda films during World War II and his collaboration with the British government for intelligence purposes are highlighted.
• Legacy and Recognition: Despite Korda’s significant contributions, his name is not as widely recognized today, prompting reflections on the fleeting nature of fame in the film industry.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, son of Gerald Davis, who digitized and curated the tapes.
• Historical Context: Recorded in 1997, these conversations offer a unique glimpse into the lives and thoughts of Wolf and Gerald Davis, providing rich historical and cultural insights.
• Cultural Significance: The episode underscores the transformative power of filmmaking and the enduring impact of influential figures like Alexander Korda.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

In Episode 10 of “Conversations on the Art of Living: The Davis Mankowitz Tapes,” Wolf and Gerald delve into the intersection of art and commerce, as well as the vibrant cultural landscape of Italy. This episode is a rich tapestry of insights into the economic realities faced by artists, the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success, and the personal anecdotes of working in the Italian film industry.

Key Topics Discussed:

Art and Commerce:

• Economic Realities: Wolf reflects on his multifaceted career, discussing the challenges artists face in balancing creative expression with financial necessities. The conversation touches on the economic pressures of filmmaking and the delicate dance between maintaining artistic integrity and achieving commercial success.
• Marketing Art: The discussion explores how various artists, including Picasso and Duchamp, navigated the commercial aspects of their careers, highlighting the different approaches and outcomes of marketing their art.

Life and Work in Italy:

• Cultural Richness: The second conversation transports listeners to Italy, where Wolf recounts his experiences working with notable figures like Carlo Ponti and Richard Burton. He paints a vivid picture of the lively Italian atmosphere, filled with spontaneous film sessions and the unique noise of Italian villages.
• Creative Inspiration: The anecdotes from Wolf’s time in Italy showcase the profound impact the country’s rich artistic heritage had on his work, emphasizing the joy and challenges of living a life dedicated to the arts.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, son of Gerald Davis, who digitized and curated the tapes.
• Historical Context: Recorded in 1997*, these conversations offer an intimate glimpse into the lives and thoughts of Wolf and Gerald, providing valuable insights into the art and film industries.
• Cultural Significance: The episode underscores the enduring importance of understanding the financial aspects of creative professions and the transformative power of cultural experiences.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

In Episode 11 of “Conversations on the Art of Living: The Davis Mankowitz Tapes,” Wolf and Gerald delve into the intricacies of the writer’s craft. This episode provides a comprehensive look at Wolf’s journey as a writer, from his early passion for fiction to his ventures into journalism, advertising, and screenwriting. The episode is rich with reflections on the challenges and triumphs of a life dedicated to storytelling.

Key Topics Discussed:

Early Career and Influences:

• Initial Passion for Fiction: Wolf shares his early aspirations of becoming a fiction writer and the practical realities that led him into other forms of writing, such as journalism and advertising.
• Literary Influences: The impact of his literary agent and his time at Cambridge, where he was influenced by critical schools of thought, is discussed, highlighting the foundational elements that shaped his writing style.

Challenges and Sacrifices:

• Economic Pressures: Wolf candidly discusses the financial challenges of sustaining a career in writing, especially the necessity of diversifying into different writing fields to support his family.
• Balancing Art and Commerce: The delicate balance between maintaining artistic integrity and achieving commercial success is a recurring theme, with Wolf reflecting on the compromises and decisions he had to make throughout his career.

Reflections on Writing:

• Process and Discipline: Insights into Wolf’s writing process, including his work discipline, the importance of having a routine, and his experience with different writing styles and formats.
• Evolution of Writing: Wolf’s reflections on the changing nature of writing, from his initial works to his later screenwriting and theatre production efforts, provide a rich tapestry of his growth as a writer.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, son of Gerald Davis, who digitized and curated the tapes.
• Historical Context: Recorded in 1997*, these conversations offer an intimate glimpse into the lives and thoughts of Wolf and Gerald, providing valuable insights into the art and craft of writing.
• Cultural Significance: The episode underscores the enduring importance of understanding the financial aspects of creative professions and the intrinsic value found in diverse creative pursuits.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.

In Episode 12 of “Conversations on the Art of Living: The Davis Mankowitz Tapes,” Wolf and Gerald delve into the profound experiences of survival against the backdrop of personal and historical challenges. This episode offers a candid exploration of Wolf’s health struggles, wartime experiences, and ideological battles, providing a testament to human resilience and the power of professional dedication.

Key Topics Discussed:

Personal Health Battles:

• Cancer and Rare Illnesses: Wolf shares his harrowing experiences with cancer and other severe illnesses, recounting near-death moments with striking detail and unexpected humor. This segment highlights his resilience and the practical approach he took towards managing his health.
• Survival and Professional Dedication: Despite severe health challenges, Wolf’s dedication to his work and professional responsibilities underscores the episode, offering inspiration and a realistic perspective on coping with life-threatening conditions.

Wartime Survival and Ideological Shifts:

• Wartime Experiences: Wolf reflects on his experiences during World War II, emphasizing the importance of survival and the ideological shifts that occurred in his life. The discussion covers his interactions with various political movements and his personal journey through wartime complexities.
• Ideological Conflicts: The conversation delves into the ideological battles of the time, including Wolf’s involvement with the Communist Party and his views on Zionism and the establishment of Israel. His experiences reveal the dangerous and often unpredictable nature of ideological commitments.

Reflections on Identity and Loyalty:

• Jewish Identity and Zionism: Wolf discusses his evolving relationship with his Jewish identity and his commitment to Israel, particularly during and after the 1967 war. This segment provides insights into the personal and political dynamics that influenced his life decisions.
• Survival Strategies: Wolf shares his strategies for navigating political and social challenges, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and cautious engagement with ideological movements.

Additional Information:

• Host and Narrator: Les Davis, son of Gerald Davis, who digitized and curated the tapes.
• Historical Context: Recorded in 1997*, these conversations offer a unique glimpse into the lives and thoughts of Wolf and Gerald, providing valuable historical and cultural insights.
• Cultural Significance: The episode underscores the complex interplay between personal experiences and broader historical events, highlighting the resilience required to navigate such challenges.

*At the time of putting together these episodes, I mistakenly stated that the year of recording was 1992 but in fact they were recorded in 1997. In the episodes of this limited series, I state they were recorded in 1992 but it was 1997. Apologies if this causes anyone any confusion.