Erased
Erased is the fascinating graphic biography of Maximus Wyld, a multiracial actor from the early days of Hollywood whose name was later removed from film credits and forgotten.
Maximus Ohanzee Wildhorse, known as Maximus Wyld, was an actor of Black, Chinese, and Native American heritage. He took “ethnic” roles in famous films and earned a solid reputation, signing a contract with Louis Mayer that guaranteed he’d never play a servant again. But Wyld was injured serving in World War II, and when a long-promised role as Othello didn’t materialize, he went to Kyrgystan to star in a Genghis Khan biopic instead. Rumors that he had communist ties hurt his career, and he served two years in jail. After his release, he disappeared; most of his movie appearances were excised from film history.
The book addresses a broad range of social issues through an early Hollywood lens, including the treatments of women and marginalized people and the threat of McCarthyism. While its scope is broad, its subject’s story is centering—both personalized and entertaining. Through his tale, facts and intellectual observations are imparted. The behind-the-scenes personalities of Wyld’s friends and acquaintances, including Lana Turner, Paul Robeson, and Clark Gable, are also of interest.
With its moody black-and-white panels in which the stars’ likenesses are distinct, Erased is a dazzling graphic biography that brings an ambitious, wronged talent into the spotlight.
Reviewed by
Peter Dabbene
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
