Griffin Dunne, in his family memoir “The Friday Afternoon Club,” shares the fascinating and often unbelievable tales of his Hollywood-connected family. Growing up surrounded by storytellers like his father Dominick Dunne and aunt Joan Didion, Dunne quickly learned not to trust everything he heard. Despite the tall tales, the book delves into the emotional depths of Hollywood life.
The Dunne family history is filled with colorful characters and scandalous events, from great-great-uncles dying in compromising situations to Dominique’s tragic death at the hands of a violent ex-boyfriend. Before Dominique’s passing, the Dunne household was a hub of Hollywood activity, with stars like Truman Capote and Natalie Wood attending their glamorous parties.
As Dunne navigates his own career in the movie industry, he encounters famous faces and experiences the highs and lows of fame. From partying with Janis Joplin to being groped by Tennessee Williams, Dunne’s life is a whirlwind of celebrity encounters. However, fame comes with its challenges, and Dunne grapples with self-sabotage and personal tragedies.
The book takes a dark turn when Dunne’s sister Dominique is murdered, leading to a harrowing legal battle with her killer. As the family seeks justice, Dunne’s anger towards the perpetrator consumes him until he learns to let go of the hate. Through it all, Dunne reflects on the nature of storytelling and the fine line between sharing personal experiences and exploiting them for gain.
In “The Friday Afternoon Club,” Griffin Dunne offers a candid and poignant portrait of his family, blending humor, heartbreak, and Hollywood glamour. His memoir is a testament to resilience, forgiveness, and the enduring power of storytelling in the face of tragedy.