Queen of Flash and Trash Jackie Collins was a True Lady Boss

Xavier Hollander, Danielle Stele, Colette, Daphne DuMarier, Erica Jong, Ingeborg Day, Anne Rice, Jacqueline Susann and Judith Krantz are just a few names that come to mind when one recalls women authors whose books examine sexuality with fiction and/or  non-ficton.  However, the “Queen of Flash and Trash” will forever by synonymous with the name of Jackie Collins.

Directed by Laura Fairrie, Lady Boss: The Jackie Collins Story breaks down the facade of a woman who was bigger than life in persona, as well as, thorugh her racy, flamethrower languge laden amongst ever character created – especially Lucky Santangelo. At the height of her illustrious career, she sold more than 500 million books making her the highest paid author in the U.K. and the most successful author in the world.

Featuring vintage home movies, archival footage and interviews from friends and family, this doc solidifies tht Collins wholeheartedly lived by the adage of  “…to be successful, you have to write about what you know,” which is precisely what she did.  From Hollywood Wives to Lady Boss, her book signings attracted crowds of women lined around the block paying homage to an author who put women’s sexuality in the forefront of the literary world.

But, as we soon learn, there is a public and private Jackie Collins.  One who wears leopard, has big hair and jewels in public and is a mother, sister, daughter and wife in private.  A woman who struggled with her weight, had a global superstar for a sister, grew up under the constant scrutiny of a super critical Dad and whose mates in life ranged from perfect to tyrannical at best.

From the youngest feminist to the oldest housewife, there were factions of people who didn’t necesaarily agree with the brand of feminism outlined on her pages.   Nor did they feel women and their assertiveness, in regards to men, sex and relationships, needed to be portrayed in the manner she choose through her characters.

Describing Marilyn Monroe’s walk as ‘something that made a revolving door stationary,’ is a perfect example of the acerbic wit Collins inhabited from the time she was child jotting in diaries to the multi-million dollar selling author she ultimately became created a global sensation on her own terms.  While being diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer and promoting her last book, Jackie Collins lost her battle in 2015. But, what a legacy she left, while blazing a trail for women to do and be whatever they want.  Lady Boss:  The Jackie Collin Story can be seen on CNN beginning June 26th and is a inspiring. honest tribute to an individual who deserves nothing less.