Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 29 votes)
5 stars
11(38%)
4 stars
9(31%)
3 stars
9(31%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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29 reviews
July 15,2025
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I have loved Ingrid Bergman from a very early age, and ever since, I have been completely dazzled by her.

I have done everything within my power to read and watch any and every single thing that she has ever been associated with, experiencing great joy in the process.

I was truly in awe of this book. The accuracy, the detail, and the complete knowledge it contains, from her early days until her sorrowful passing, are simply remarkable.

I would highly recommend this book to any fan or even a history collector. It is a wonderfully written and illustrated account of the life of a true born star.

I have read it over and over again, and each time, I am inspired by her courage and perseverance.

Ingrid serves as a wonderful example for many of us, showing us how to hold our heads up high in the face of adversity and carry on with pride.

I love this book so very much, and I would encourage everyone to read it. I also wish it could be publicized again for our upcoming generation of girls to know and love her as I have, along with so many others.

July 15,2025
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The way the United States Government and Hollywood dealt with an artist's individual freedom is truly notorious and reprehensible.

This is almost inconceivable in today's times. The US media, US politicians, and Hollywood production houses unjustly boycotted her.

Despite being a Swedish actress, she had wholeheartedly dedicated herself to Hollywood, yet this was the kind of treatment she received.

This incident exposes the true nature of Hollywood.

As described in Notorious: The Life of Ingrid Bergman, Ingrid Bergman's story is a prime example of how an artist can be mistreated in the name of various reasons.

Her talent and contributions to the world of cinema were overshadowed by the unjust actions of those in power.

This serves as a reminder that we should always be vigilant in protecting the rights and freedoms of artists.
July 15,2025
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This is an extremely engaging biography that skillfully leads the reader through the remarkable career of Bergman. It not only delves into her professional achievements but also explores the complex web of marriages and romances that intertwined with her life. Spoto presents a balanced perspective, being sympathetic towards Bergman without crossing the line into sycophancy (for the most part). His evaluations of her work are in line with the general critical consensus. For instance, he deems For Whom the Bell Tolls as a less successful endeavor, while Autumn Sonata is regarded as a triumph. If you find yourself completely unfamiliar with Bergman and her body of work, this biography serves as an excellent starting point. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to one of the most iconic figures in the history of cinema.

July 15,2025
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A well-researched and detailed account of one of film's best treasures.

Ingrid Bergman, a graceful but shy Swedish thespian, was truly a remarkable figure. Her natural beauty was such that she could wear no makeup and still shine on the silver screen. For a time, she held the title of Hollywood's highest-paid actress, achieving a stellar rise to cinematic ubiquity.

However, her life took a tumultuous turn when she was pilloried by the U.S. Congress as an adultress and expelled from the country. But Ingrid Bergman was not one to be stymied.

Despite the setbacks, her Oscar-winning performances eventually earned her redemption in the eyes of the American people. Her work set a standard that current actors can only dream of reaching.

In the interest of transparency, I must admit that this rating is less a review of the book itself and more of an appreciation for the extraordinary life that Ingrid Bergman lived. Her story is one of talent, perseverance, and ultimately, triumph. It serves as an inspiration to all those who strive for greatness in the world of film and beyond.

July 15,2025
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A light read that is easily and pleasantly digestible in the evenings after long days of arduous work. The reader is gently ferried down the stream of the life of an Ingrid Bergman who seems to be flawless. Although the final few chapters verge on being almost unbearably sentimental, and one might half expect Spoto to include a petition to canonize Bergman as a saint, Notorious does not overly tax the brain. Instead, it even manages to kindle an interest in a significant amount of otherwise unheard-of cinematography.


I believe I was inspired to pick up this book after completely missing an Ingrid Bergman retrospective at my local independent cinema. Chief among the films shown were Gaslight and Autumn Sonata. I look forward to the next opportunity to explore more of her works. Until then!

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