"Cleopatra" faced countless problems during its filming and production: passionate casting disputes, broken contracts, a costly re-location from London to Rome, an emergency tracheotomy for its star, Elizabeth Taylor, scandal-ridden gossip surrounding relationships on set, and a budget of $2 million that ballooned to final costs of $44 million. Legendary producer Walter Wanger recalls the drama that occurred both on and off the set, including the incredible obstacles he had to overcome and the exhilaration of producing a cinematic triumph. A revealing story about Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's tempestuous romance and an insightful filmmaker's journal, now back in print for the 50th anniversary of "Cleopatra"'s release, "My Life with Cleopatra "shares the true story of the relationship and film that enthralled the world.
"I have been told by responsible journalists that there was more world interest in "Cleopatra," which I produced, and in its stars--Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Rex Harrison--than in any event of 1962." --Walter Wanger

Hyams emphasizes crucial aspects of the martial arts that have been all but lost since their import into the West: the Zen objectives of serenity of spirit, tranquility of mind, and firmness of will.

"A man who has attained mastery of an art reveals it in his every action."--Samurai Maximum.

Under the guidance of such celebrated masters as Ed Parker and the immortal Bruce Lee, Joe Hyams vividly recounts his more than 25 years of experience in the martial arts. In his illuminating story, Hyams reveals to you how the daily application of Zen principles not only developed his physical expertise but gave him the mental discipline to control his personal problems-self-image, work pressure, competition. Indeed, mastering the spiritual goals in martial arts can dramatically alter the quality of your life-enriching your relationships with people, as well as helping you make use of all your abilities.

A man who has attained mastery of an art reveals it in his every action. Samurai maxim

Under the guidance of such celebrated masters as Ed Parker and the immortal Bruce Lee, Joe Hyams vividly recounts his more than twenty-five years of experience in the martial arts. In his illuminating story, Hyams reveals to listeners how the daily application of Zen principles not only developed his physical expertise but gave him the mental discipline to control his personal problems self-image, work pressure, competition. Indeed, mastering the spiritual goals in martial arts can dramatically alter the quality of your life enriching your relationships with people, as well as helping you make use of all your abilities."