Animal Performers

Did you know that the Labrador retriever that starred in Marley and Me was a rescue dog from a shelter in Florida? His is a true rags-to-riches story! This title explores the history of animals in entertainment while highlighting some of the pet pals we have grown to love on the silver screen!

Encounters between the species in an anthology of lively solo performances and commentary

From horses and cats to elephants and giraffes, this is the definitive reference on animal anatomy for painters, sculptors, and illustrators. 104 halftones, 281 line drawings, 100 photos.

When cameras roll and directors call, “Action,” some of the most dependable, funniest, and most enthusiastic actors stand poised on four legs, with ears alert. From Joey in War Horse to the wolves in Game of Thrones, what we see on screen is the result of meticulous preparation and professional teamwork. The eye-popping, heartwarming stories in these pages reveal the trainers, actors, directors, and, of course, dogs, cats, horses, penguins, deer, and other animals in all their behind-the-scenes glory. You’ll discover that some animal actors have diva tendencies and others have rags-to-riches backstories. American Humane Association certified animal safety representatives work carefully to ensure that no animals are harmed, as they have been doing for decades. Animal stars have done it all — convinced us to eat more tacos, broken our hearts in war dramas, inspired us with enduring love and loyalty, kept us at the edge of our seats as they snarled in the shadows, mirrored human antics to make us roar with laughter, and, like Uggie (from The Artist), stolen the show on the red carpet. Who besides a monkey named Crystal could impress a brilliant comedian like Robin Williams in Night at the Museum? And animal stars will work for food, including only KFC original recipe for Casey the bear — no other fried chicken will do! These charming and sometimes hilarious stories will give you a new appreciation for the skill and patience it takes to teach nonhuman actors to perform on camera. Training tips from the pros and personal recollections of celebrities such as Julia Roberts, Hailee Steinfeld, and Steven Spielberg make this insider’s look at the lives and work of these incomparable stars as irresistible as the animals themselves. A portion of the publisher’s proceeds from this book will aid American Humane Association.

Lights! Camera! Woof! Human actors are some of the most admired people in show biz, but what about animal actors? They're definitely the cat's meow. In this star-studded book, readers will learn about some of the most famous animals to walk the red carpet. They'll get a peek at the training process and what a typical day is like on the set. They'll also learn about where animal actors go when they retire. Easily accessible text and adorable photographs present an action-packed portrait of these cuddly celebrities at their finest.

This collection examines the question of nonhuman animal agency by shifting emphasis from the human perspective toward that of other animals, exploring modes of animal resistance to human behaviors, and considering the ways the presence of animals refracts human notions like agency and species.

"Babe" proves that audiences still love animals, and readers will find a tribute to 40 of these creatures of entertainment in "Amazing Animal Actors". The book covers stars from early movies, such as Asta, Toto, and Rin Tin Tin, to Boomer television favorites such as Mr. Ed, Silver, and Lassie, up to more contemporary stars including Benji, Beethoven, Babe, and more. 100 photos.

First Published in 1997. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.