The Public Enemy (Warner Bros., 1931), James Cagney Personal Original Final-Draft Script....

Description

The Public Enemy (Warner Bros., 1931), James Cagney Personal Original Final-Draft Script. Vintage original studio-mimeo production final-draft script by Kubec Glasmon and John Bright, from Harvey Thew's screenplay, dated January 18, 1931, 134-pg on tanned pulp-paper leaves, bradded and bound in studio-printed blue wraps with title, and stamped "Final", and "Return to/ Stenographic Dept./ Warner Bros. First National Studios, Burbank". With James Cagney's bookplate affixed inside front wrap ("His Book") which implies this to be his own personal archived example of what is arguably his single most iconic film role. James Cagney was a bit player until he was cast as the lead Tom Powers in The Public Enemy. It was his snappy patter, and wisecracking grin that earned him the title shot at Hollywood history. The film exploited the lives of gangsters like Al Capone who rose to power in the early 1930's and shocked the public into awareness of the organized crime organizations that ran bootleg alcohol during prohibition. This is one of the most important films made during the pre-Code era, ushering in a watershed moment for Warner Bros. Also featured were blonde bombshell Jean Harlow, Ed Woods, Mae "Frankenstein" Clarke and Joan Blondell. The wrappers exhibit light edge wear, mild to moderate toning, complete separation at spine (though virtually all spine paper is present) and minor marginal chipping. Interior shows minor chipping variously throughout the fore-edge, due to the brittle nature of the acidic pulp-paper leaves which have all age-toned, but remains otherwise relatively free of wear or signs of handling. The poster image is for reference only and is not included with this lot. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions.

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