Stardom rises when an actor risks a new level of achievement. Twelve such stellar leaps are vividly explored in Starlight Rising. This unique book, spanning almost 80 years of movie history and creative courage, stars Humphrey Bogart, Elliott Gould, Pam Grier, Alec Guinness, Audrey Hepburn, Katharine Hepburn. Nicole Kidman, Marcello Mastroianni, Matthew McConaughey, Zero Mostel, Anthony Perkins and Harry Dean Stanton. As a film critic David Elliott stimulated readers at major newspapers, and now provides a new lens for looking at stars. Viewing each actor in a brave role, Elliott's approach is sophisticated but entertaining, prismatic but not pedantic as he examines in depth these talents and their exciting gambles. Fans, buffs, actors, directors, teachers and students will relish this savvy celebration of charismatic stars who "acted up in movies."