Adventures in the Screen Trade

01The Genesis: Early Life and Introduction to Hollywood

Born into a Jewish family in Highland Park, Illinois, on August 12, 1931, William Goldman's early life was a blend of privilege and tragedy. His father, Maurice Clarence Goldman, was a successful businessman, and his mother, Marion Weil Goldman, a dedicated homemaker. However, the shadow of his father's alcoholism and subsequent suicide when Goldman was just 15, cast a long and profound influence on his later writing. The traumatic event became a wellspring of emotional depth in his works, allowing him to explore the human condition with a raw honesty that resonated with readers and viewers alike. Goldman's literary journey began at Oberlin College, where he contributed to the school newspaper and experimented with short stories. His passion for writing continued to flourish during his two-year stint in the army, where he often sent his works to his brother, James Goldman, for feedback. This period of his life was instrumental in shaping his writing style and honing his storytelling skills. Upon his discharge from the army, Goldman moved to New York City, a hub of creativity and opportunity. He enrolled in Columbia University's Master of Arts program in English, where he further refined his craft and began to explore the world of screenwriting. His first novel, "The Temple of Gold," published in 1957, marked the beginning of his professional writing career. It was a testament to his talent and a stepping stone towards his future success. Goldman's foray into Hollywood began in 1961 when actor Cliff Robertson read one of his novels and hired him to adapt it into a screenplay. The film, "Soldier in the Rain," may not have been a commercial success, but it marked Goldman's entry into the film industry. Despite facing numerous rejections and the constant need to rewrite scripts to meet the demands of directors and producers, Goldman persevered. His resilience was a testament to his dedication to his craft and his belief in his storytelling abilities. Goldman's breakthrough came in 1965 when he sold the screenplay for "Harper," a detective film starring Paul Newman. The film's success, coupled with Goldman's sharp dialogue and intricate plotting, caught the attention of Hollywood. This led to more opportunities, culminating in 1969 when he was hired to write the screenplay for "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." The film was a massive success, winning four Academy Awards and establishing Goldman as a leading Hollywood screenwriter. In conclusion, Goldman's early life and introduction to Hollywood were marked by personal tragedy, resilience, and eventual triumph. His journey from a young writer in Illinois to a celebrated Hollywood screenwriter is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and the power of storytelling. His works, deeply influenced by his personal experiences, continue to resonate with audiences, making him an enduring figure in the world of screenwriting.