The Godfather Part III (Paramount, 1990), Second Draft Script Written by Mario Puzo with Signed Puzo Letter to Francis...

Description

The Godfather Part III (Paramount, 1990), Second Draft Script Written by Mario Puzo with Signed Puzo Letter to Francis Ford Coppola. Original studio bound and bradded 184-page (as paginated) second draft script of The Godfather Part III, written by Mario Puzo and dated November 30, 1986. Bound in red studio covers with gilt lettering on the front, this is an early and significant draft from the long development of the final chapter in The Godfather trilogy. Accompanying the script is a signed, handwritten letter from Mario Puzo to Francis Ford Coppola, dated May 10, 1985, in which Puzo urges Coppola to direct the project. The note reads: "Dear Francis, / Here is the script and thanks for calling me. / Two things: I prefer the beginning of my first script / which just starts with Michael bringing the children back to Kay. / An act which is the resurrection of Michael from despair. / It will also get the audience rooting for him. I think. / Second: I'm aware that the ending is not quite right. / I remember in the first movie I said the same thing to you / and you solved it by combining the baptism with the executions. / I think this is the same problem and I'm sure you can do it again. / Needless to say I hope you like the script and hope you will do the film. / [signed] Best, Mario." An additional note dated September 4, 1987, from Sara, identifies this copy as one of Mario Puzo's drafts. As stated on page one of the script, the story begins just one year after the events of The Godfather Part II-a major departure from the final version, which takes place nearly two decades later. This early draft also features a dramatically different ending: rather than Mary being killed, Mary (Sofia Coppola) and Vincent (Andy Garcia) end up together, offering a more redemptive and romantic conclusion to the Corleone saga. This script comes from the archive of Fred Roos, the film's producer and longtime collaborator of Coppola. Roos played a central role in the project from early feasibility planning through post-production, and his involvement provides crucial context for the development of the film. A rare and compelling artifact from one of the most storied productions in American cinema, offering unmatched insight into the narrative evolution, creative collaboration, and production challenges behind The Godfather Part III. Script exhibits age and handling and minor marking on the front cover with the letters with original folds and light edgewear/tearing. The poster is for reference only and is not included with this lot. Signature has not been authenticated, and this lot is offered as is. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions. From the Estate of Fred Roos.

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