Apocalypse Now (United Artists, 1979) Original Alternate Comp Key Art by Bob Peak....

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Apocalypse Now (United Artists, 1979) Original Alternate Comp Key Art by Bob Peak. This unpublished Apocalypse Now comp is the only fully realized artwork to feature the original plan of showcasing Robert Duvall as Lieutenant Colonel Kilgore alongside Marlon Brando's Colonel Kurtz and Martin Sheen's Captain Willard in the film's advertising campaign. A large 38" x 30.25" mixed media on board artwork that has been spectacularly preserved and framed to 46" x 39", the image highlights the hazy orange that would go on to be part of the signature look of the film's campaign. Hints of the neon colors and line work used in the Do Luong bridge imagery from the final poster can be seen reflected in Duvall's sunglasses, and his mouth is open as though exclaiming "I love the smell of napalm in the morning." Brando's expression is somewhat more wary and searching than in the final, and Sheen is seen in profile rather than head on.

Peak was forced to remove Duvall from the concept at some point during the film's production, when relations between the actor and director were particularly stormy. While it's hard to imagine any alternative to the final movie poster art more precisely capturing the mood of Apocalypse Now than the work as developed, the strength of image is powerfully suggestive of the mirror images of Kilgore's insanity and Kurtz's, and the questions faced by Willard as he comes to his own clarity about the war.

It's a tremendously accomplished and historically intriguing piece from the making of Apocalypse Now and a true example of Peak's genius for depicting character through portraiture. Comes with foam board with plaque/title card. Frame exhibits minor corner and edge wear.

Signed B. Peak lower right, not examined outside of frame.

Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions. From the Treasures from the Bob Peak Collection.