Get Shorty
Get Shorty is a critically acclaimed crime novel written by American author Elmore Leonard. Published in 1990, the story follows the life of a Miami loan shark named Chili Palmer who becomes involved in the movie industry through a series of unexpected events.
The Story
The book revolves around Chili Palmer, a small-time mobster involved in the Miami underworld. When a debt goes unpaid, he is dispatched to Las Vegas to collect the money. However, he becomes enamored with the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry after witnessing a film shoot on the Vegas Strip.
Chili sees an opportunity to break free from his criminal life and make it big in Hollywood. Armed with his street smarts and knowledge of the loan sharking game, he sets out to make his mark in the movie business. He befriends a struggling filmmaker named Harry Zimm, who offers him a chance to produce a film with the help of a notorious B-movie producer named Bo Catlett.
As the story progresses, Chili finds himself navigating through the treacherous world of Hollywood, dealing with eccentric actors, egotistical directors, and shady characters. He must juggle his new venture while avoiding his criminal past catching up with him. Along the way, he encounters unexpected twists and turns, making the story a rollercoaster ride of suspense, humor, and action.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
Get Shorty has received widespread critical acclaim for its sharp dialogue, intricate plot, and well-developed characters. The novel’s unique blend of crime fiction and Hollywood satire has captivated readers and critics alike.
Upon its release, Get Shorty received several prestigious awards and nominations, including the Edgar Award for Best Novel. It also made various “Best of the Year” lists and solidified Elmore Leonard’s reputation as a master of crime fiction.
Characters
Get Shorty introduces a diverse cast of memorable characters that play pivotal roles in the story’s development:
Chili Palmer: The protagonist of the story, Chili is a loan shark with a quick wit and a knack for navigating the criminal underworld.
Harry Zimm: A struggling filmmaker who dreams of making it big in Hollywood. He becomes Chili’s partner in producing a film.
Bo Catlett: A notorious B-movie producer who aids Chili and Harry in their movie venture but harbors ulterior motives.
Karen Flores: Bo Catlett’s girlfriend and a former scream queen. She becomes entangled in the Hollywood chaos alongside Chili and Harry.
Ray “Bones” Barboni: A rival mobster who poses a threat to Chili’s plans. He has a tempestuous relationship with Chili throughout the book.
Ronnie Wingate: A drug dealer who gets involved in the movie business, bringing further complications to Chili’s already tangled web.
These characters, along with a colorful ensemble of supporting players, come together to create a vibrant and intricate story that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Conclusion
As an expert in marketing and content creation for the internet, I have crafted this detailed glossary optimized for SEO to cater to literary enthusiasts interested in reading across multiple formats. Whether it’s books, audiobooks, e-books, or podcasts, Get Shorty offers a gripping tale that seamlessly blends the worlds of crime fiction and Hollywood satire. With its critical acclaim, awards, and well-crafted characters, it is no wonder that this novel continues to attract readers worldwide.