Longboat sweets shop owner pens Hollywood-centric book

Customers walking into Elegant Lady Cheesecake Parlor know the pastry shop for its classic Hollywood flair, where cases of gourmet donuts are surrounded by scripts and other film memorabilia.

Owner Gary Hagen, writing under the name Gary King, is taking that same whimsy that inspired his shop to the pages of his first book.

Titled "Romancing Hollywood," the book is a comedic set of scenes from the behind-the-scenes world of filmmaking.

Photo by Dana Kampa

Hagen said he was inspired to take on the project by some of Hollywood's greats, particularly how they found ways to entertain and uplift audiences even through some of history's challenging chapters.

One of Hagen's favorite inspirations is Charlie Chaplin, the icon of early black-and-white film who used physical comedy to earn a laugh.

"Back in his time, he made people laugh during one of the worst times in the world," he said. "My hope is to also help people laugh more again."

Hagen said his book arose from the aftermath of one of Longboat Key's toughest times in recent history.

His shop, which officially opened in spring 2024, was hit hard by flooding from hurricanes Helene and Milton. Rebuilding was a long process, and when he found time to himself, Hagen worked on his book.

The fictional narrative follows iconic actors and actresses on their exploits as they chase their dreams and hope to find love.

Without giving too much away, Hagen offered a glimpse into one scene. Robert Downey Jr., who portrayed Chaplin in a 1992 biopic by the same name, gets caught up in a watery rendition of "Singing in the Rain."

Written as a collection of stories rather than a linear narrative, the book depicts stories from about a dozen different Hollywood figures, he said.

"It will make you really laugh, and there is some sad stuff too," he said. "But, the end result comes back to finding that happiness."

This may be his first published book, but he doesn't believe it will be his last time spinning tales inspired by film stars.

At the same time, he is planning some updates around the shop, including Art Deco touches in honor of 100 years of the bold 20th-century style.