Action! (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781915975324)

The story of David Wickes, one of the most prolific directors of TV and movies in the 'Golden Age' of entertainment.

In his own conversational style, David tells how it was to work on iconic series like The Sweeney, The Professionals, and Van der Valk. He explains how he moved on to his own Hollywood productions, such as Philip Marlowe, Private Eye, Jack the Ripper, Jekyll & Hyde and Frankenstein.

Along the way, there are many surprises. What was it like to interview the President of France? How come an action director like David made an award-winning film based on Shakespeare's sonnets? Did his own daughter really choose a popular TV theme tune?

All this and much more awaits you, including tales of David's famous magician father, who knew Charlie Chaplin, and David's early career in the army.

This is more than one man's tale. It's the story of filmmaking before today's digital miracles, when everything had to be done for real. Blood, sweat and tears? Yes, but also lots of fun.

Collaborator Simon J. Ballard also provides an informal look at David's productions. As a friend and fan of David's, he promises to be impartial! He also spoke with a number of people who worked with David including actors Diane Keen, George Sweeney and Patrick Bergin, as well as his regular composer, John Cameron.

With a foreword by none other than producer of the James Bond films, Barbara Broccoli.