TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, Paramount Pictures letterhead, March 31, 1953. Letter to Harry Lockwood regarding his film The Greatest Show On Earth. In part: “It was particularly pleasant to know that you feel the Academy recognition was merited. The wonderful spirit of cooperation that everyone showed in working on The Greatest Show On Earth was worthy of Masonic tradition. That is why it received the honors that its thousands of workers deserved.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. There have been allegations that the film’s Best Picture Oscar was due to the political climate in Hollywood in 1952. Senator Joseph McCarthy was pursuing Communists at the time, and Cecil B. deMille was one of his supporters; moreover, the most highly praised film of the year, High Noon, was produced by Carl Foreman, who would soon be blacklisted. The Greatest Show On Earth’s win is seen by some as an effort to appease McCarthy. In fine condition, with a mild shade of toning. RRAuction COA.
