The Friday Afternoon Club: A Family Memoir by Griffin Dunne
Griffin Dunne's memoir, "The Friday Afternoon Club," unfolds as a riveting journey through the author's unique upbringing amidst Hollywood and Manhattan's glittering landscapes. From brushes with icons like Sean Connery and Janis Joplin to sharing life with luminaries such as Joan Didion, John Gregory Dunne, and Carrie Fisher, Dunne paints a vivid portrait of a life steeped in larger-than-life personalities and unforgettable moments.
At the heart of the memoir lies Griffin's familial bonds, illuminated with both humor and poignancy. He recounts his tumultuous adolescence, including his expulsion from boarding school and his formative years in New York, where he navigated the world of acting and cinema, culminating in his role in Martin Scorsese's cult classic "After Hours." Amidst these highs, Griffin grapples with profound loss, notably the tragic murder of his sister Dominique, which thrust his father, Dominick Dunne, into the spotlight as a crusader for justice.
"The Friday Afternoon Club" transcends the typical celebrity memoir, delving deep into the complexities of family dynamics and the enduring impact of personal tragedy. With warmth and insight, Dunne captures the essence of his loved ones—flawed, endearing, and unforgettable. His narrative not only celebrates the glamour and allure of Hollywood but also explores the resilience and humanity that underpin the glitz and glamor.
Through Griffin Dunne's eloquent prose and candid storytelling, readers are invited into a world where fame and tragedy intersect, revealing the profound truths that shape a life—and a family—across generations.