ROLL THE CALLS
By Ari Emanuel
Publisher: Knopf
The Hollywood mogul charts his rise to power and depicts behind-the-scenes stories about the entertainment industry.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Ari Emanuel's memoir, "Roll the Calls," is a brash, unfiltered journey through the life of one of Hollywood's most formidable agents. Co-written with J.R. Moehringer, the book offers a candid look at Emanuel's rise from a dyslexic child in Chicago to the pinnacle of the entertainment industry.
Emanuel's narrative is unapologetically raw, filled with expletives and unvarnished opinions. He doesn't shy away from settling scores, offering scathing critiques of industry peers like Barry Diller and Jeffrey Katzenberg. His recounting of personal and professional battles is both riveting and, at times, unsettling. The New York Times aptly describes the memoir as "fiery" and "furious," capturing the essence of Emanuel's relentless drive and unyielding personality. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/da6336deae32b38790f27785fdc64696?utm_source=openai))
However, the memoir's relentless focus on Emanuel's rage and confrontations becomes monotonous. While his achievements are undeniable, the lack of introspection and self-awareness is glaring. The narrative often feels like a one-sided diatribe, lacking the depth and nuance that would make his story truly compelling. As Vanity Fair notes, Emanuel's world divides quickly into people he protects and people he fights, leaving little room for gray areas. ([vanityfair.com](https://www.vanityfair.com/story/ari-emanuel-roll-the-calls?utm_source=openai))
Moreover, the memoir's structure is disjointed, with Emanuel jumping between anecdotes without clear transitions. This haphazard approach makes it challenging to follow his journey cohesively. The absence of significant reflection on his personal relationships, especially with his family, leaves a void in understanding the man behind the mogul.
In conclusion, "Roll the Calls" offers an unfiltered glimpse into the high-stakes world of Hollywood deal-making through the eyes of one of its most notorious figures. However, its lack of depth, self-awareness, and coherent structure makes it a challenging read. For those seeking a nuanced and introspective memoir, this book falls short.
Recommendation: Read with caution.
written on: 10/1/2026