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Description

Olympia typewriter used by Joseph Stefano to write the Psycho screenplay. If all classic films begin with a great screenplay, and if Hitchcock's Psycho is considered one of the greatest horror films of all time, then this typewriter must be one of the most important artifacts in film history. It was with this typewriter that celebrated screenwriter Joseph Stefano wrote the horror classic. Adapted from Robert Bloch's novel based on the horrific crimes of Ed Gein. Stefano, alongside Hitchcock, always an uncredited close collaborator on the screenplays for his films, would have hovered over this typewriter as they crafted their groundbreaking script. While preserving many of Bloch's story elements, Stefano set about changing the narrative in many significant ways that are today considered some of the most potent parts of the film. For example, when Hitchcock suggested casting Anthony Perkins as "Norman Bates", Stefano transformed Bloch's character from an overweight, alcoholic pornography-addict to a much more sympathetic figure, making the concealment of Bates' relationship to "Mother" more easily misdirected. The film was nominated for an Academy Award and selected for preservation in the National Film registry in 1992. After Psycho, Stefano went on to write twelve early episodes for the cult science fiction television show The Outer Limits, also written on this typewriter. The olive green Olympia brand De Luxe model typewriter measures 12.5 x 16 x 7.5 in., is fully functional, and includes its stock vinyl Olympia brand cover. Typewriter body exhibits expected wear and dings from daily heavy use. All keys and key markings present. This extremely important typewriter remains in vintage production used condition. Accompanied by two LOAs from writer Joseph Stefano's widow and son.

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.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
June, 2016
29th Wednesday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 0
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 368
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Sold on Jun 29, 2016 for: Not Sold
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