I read If Chins Could Kill, Bruce Campbell's autobiography, in one sitting, and not only is it great entertainment, but it's full of excellent advice and insights about the movie industry. If you are an aspiring indie filmmaker, a fan of Bruce's b-movies, or interested in the life of a jobbing actor, then this book is well worth reading.

Nearly half of the book details Bruce's background and the completion of his first film (well, the first film to be released, he made many, many movies with his buddies in High School): the legendary Evil Dead. This part of the book is chock-full of amusing anecdotes about Bruce's home life (the battles between his brothers, and his early interest in acting), the friends with whom he began making movies (such as Sam Raimi, Josh Becker, Scott Spiegel and John Cameron), and how he and his mates raised the cash to make Evil Dead, the terrors they endured to make it, and then how they flogged it to Hollywood. This part of the book alone is worth the the cover price, because there are so many tips about making movies on a low budget. I particularly liked the diagrams which detail the rigs the guys invented so Raimi could get some of the more bizarre shots he wanted for Evil Dead. With names such as the "vas-o-cam", "shaky-cam", "ellie-vator", and "ram-o-cam I" you get an idea of what these lads jury-rigged in order to get the look Raimi demanded.

The latter part of the book proves that fame does not come to those without the A-list look, and Bruce describes the long and tough road for an actor who is interested in, well, acting, and hopefully paying the rent as well. Along the way Bruce got married, had two children, got divorced, and married again - while he's open about his relationships Bruce obviously believes in keeping the intimidate details private. So, there's no recriminations or sideways swipes. There's also plenty of interesting stories about the making of Evil Dead II & III, The Adventures of Brisco County Jr., Hercules and Xena, as well as Bruce's foray into directing. The last chapter about his book tour include tales about handshakes, fans, hiking,and the twenty-year anniversary gathering to celebrate the release of Evil Dead.

It's a groovy book that made me chuckle frequently. Bruce has a simple and laconic style of writing which reflects his laid back and practical attitude. There is plenty here for the fan of Bruce's oeuvre, as well as those who are interested in the nuts and bolts of making films.