*This webinar is part of our NYAC Summer Encore Series — a limited-time showcase of archived programs, re-airing exclusively this August*
What do Courtney Love, Jared Leto, and Johnny Carson have in common? Surprisingly, they all took greater control of their careers by using the "de Havilland law," which prevented movie studios from exploiting loopholes to extend their contracts long past their legal limit. Who was Olivia de Havilland and what motivated her to file a lawsuit against one of the world's largest movie studios when similar challenges in years past had failed? Get ready to examine the landmark legal battle between a movie star and a studio that would not only change the film industry, but music and TV as well.
Join New York Adventure Club as we celebrate the story of two-time Oscar winner Olivia de Havilland, one of Hollywood’s most resilient and charismatic stars who took on Warner Bros. at the height of her acting career to gain independence.
Hosted by documentarian and author Steven C. Smith, our virtual experience will include:
- A look inside Hollywood dream factories of the 1930s and ‘40s, along with the sometimes brutal challenges of making movies now considered classics
- Stories of her legendary onscreen teaming with Errol Flynn — and why the two, who shared an off-camera passion, could never be a couple
- A play-by-play account of the dramatic court case Olivia brought against Warner Bros. that not only changed her career, but the careers of countless others
- Scene from de Havilland’s greatest films along with rare, behind-the-scenes footage
- Candid interview comments from Olivia de Havilland about her long, colorful career
- Why Olivia, at the age 101, took producer Ryan Murphy (Glee, Feud) to court, which made headlines around the world
See you there, virtually!
*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!
About Steven
Steven C. Smith is a four-time Emmy-nominated producer, and the author of Music by Max Steiner: The Epic Life of Hollywood’s Most Influential Composer. The biography was named one of the best books of the year by BBC Music Magazine and Variety.
Smith is also the author of A Heart at Fire's Center: The Life and Music of Bernard Herrmann, which received the ASCAP-Deems Taylor Award. Steven's over-200 documentaries include collaborations with Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, Martin Scorsese, Julie Andrews, and Stephen Sondheim.
Testimonials
"A very well illustrated presentation, clear and easy to follow. A very likeable presenter whose enthusiasm for the subject comes across well, very enjoyable thank you ." -Declan
"The presenter was very engaging, there was a perfect mix of information given and film clips. Events like these are WONDERFUL!!!! keep them coming!" -Maria
"Very well done - no glitches- interesting mix of stories about her - great presentation" -Janet
"Another superb presentation by Steven." -Jennifer
"This is the best presenter on the platform. Very professional, very interesting supporting materials, sticks to the topic" -Sj
"I like that I was able to learn more about Ms. de Havilland's life and impact plus the politics of the Golden Era of Hollywood beyond the movies, the studios, and the talent. Not only was the session insightful and interesting but the convenience of being able to replay it is very much appreciated. Thank you again!" -RL
"Steven was a great presenter. I enjoyed the webinar." -Wendy
"The variety of media: quips of interviews, trailers, photographs, newspaper articles, his own experience. Very engaging. I really do like these NY Adventure Club webinars. I appreciated his recommendations for further reading too." -Ellen
"Steven is always an amazing presenter. He has so many facts but also anecdotes. Wonderfully paced with plenty of visuals" -Matthew
"His presentation is always fabulous!!!" -Carol
"Steven presented a good mix of film and interview clips, narration, and photographs to tell the story of this remarkable actress. Another excellent NYAC presentation and another great session presented by Steven Smith." -Ken
"The way Steve relayed this amazing story was totally absorbing." -Karen
"Steven is always excellent …full of info" -Joan
"Steven did a wonderful job!" -Paula
"The presenter narrated a fabulous program highlighting the subject’s life with photographs, movie clips and movie previews, plus clips of the actress herself commenting on her perspective of her career." -Emily
Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
This event is an educational presentation organized by New York Adventure Club and is not affiliated with the Estate of Olivia de Havilland, Warner Bros., or any other affiliated rights holders. Our event is a fan-inspired experience celebrating the life, career, and cinematic legacy of Olivia de Havilland. Any references to Olivia de Havilland, her films, or likeness are made solely for educational and entertainment purposes, and no official endorsement or sponsorship is implied. Olivia de Havilland and related trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment
