The Invisible Man (Universal, 1933), Typed-Carbon Universal File Copy Early Production Treatment by John Huston....

Description

The Invisible Man (Universal, 1933), Typed-Carbon Universal File Copy Early Production Treatment by John Huston. Vintage original typed-carbon studio bound and bradded, vellum tissue 10-pg treatment of The Invisible Man by Universal staff-writer and future director John Huston, dated on the studio's Japan-paper wrappers "June 29, 1932", and retaining "File Copy/ Return to Central Files" and "623" ink stamp. The genesis of the movie adaptation of H.G. Wells' The Invisible Man to screen was practically as suspenseful as the source material. Following the record-breaking success of Frankenstein, director James Whale, and star, Boris Karloff, were slated to reunite to make The Invisible Man for Carl Laemmle at Universal Pictures. However, concerned about being labeled a "horror director" James Whale left the project by January 28, 1932, which was a full five months before the time this draft treatment is dated. Whale's concept was radically different from the Wells' novel, opting for a more sympathetic monster in his "Jack Griffin" (which became the much more sinister "Carpenter" in Huston's rewrite). Whale's compassion for misfits, outcasts, and misunderstood characters would emerge as a hallmark of Whale's work with villains and monsters. In Whale's treatment, Griffin, while disfigured when not transparent, is far from a monster, practicing medicine and treating poor townsfolk. With Whale having begged off, the movie's star Boris Karloff was in limbo. Murders in the Rue Morgue (1932) director Robert Florey was tapped and delivered a script co-written by Frankenstein and Dracula contributor Garrett Forth. Next, writer John L. Balderston, also a credited contributor to both projects, submitted a screenplay in collaboration with the film's latest director Cyril Gardner. Even Universal stable writers John Huston and Richard Schayer took a shot at scripting. Following Whale's return to horror with The Old Dark House (1932), he was again set to direct The Invisible Man. Preston Sturges submitted a script and was fired by Universal the next day. Whale wrote yet another treatment, which was rejected by novelist Wells. Whale left the picture, yet again! John Weld was next signed to write the script and visited rejected drafts, including one by Laird Doyle. Finally, R.C. Sherriff was hired as screenwriter and Whale once more reinstated to direct. Sheriff hammered away, disregarding previous attempts and directives by the studio. Meanwhile, James Whale was laid off by Universal for three months before finally returning to direct the movie. By now, Karloff was unavailable, so stage actor Claude Rains was cast after a protracted battle between Whale insisting on Rains and Universal protesting he wasn't a big enough name. The continuity-sized 9" x 13.5" treatment exhibits age and handling with studio wrapper showing chipped and shattered edges, light soiling and creasing. The interior content exhibits some staining and marginal toning not affecting legibility. The poster image is for reference only and is not included with this lot. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.