Michael left school in 1969 and embarked on a career path that would eventually lead him to success in the film industry. Initially, he worked as a messenger boy at Cinerama International Releasing Organisation, later renamed Cinerama Releasing UK, where he eventually became a press officer. This experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors, as he went on to work as a publicist at Columbia-Warner Film Distributors.
In addition to his behind-the-scenes work, Michael also pursued his passion for acting, landing minor roles on television and on stage. His experience as an extra in numerous films further honed his skills, and he began directing plays in 1974, demonstrating his versatility as a creative force.
In the 1970s, Michael diversified his career by working as a journalist, first at Film Review and then at Photoplay. This stint not only allowed him to share his love for cinema with a wider audience but also provided a platform for him to develop his writing skills.
Michael's literary accomplishments are truly impressive, as he has penned over twenty books on the cinema since 1981. His notable works include biographies of iconic figures such as Charlton Heston, John Wayne, Burt Lancaster, Gregory Peck, Richard Burton, and Laurence Olivier.
