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Lot #1062
Laurence Olivier

Olivier signs on for his violent and Oscar-nominated role in Rebecca

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Description

Olivier signs on for his violent and Oscar-nominated role in Rebecca

DS, signed 'Laurence Olivier,' thirteen pages, 8.5 x 11, July 1, 1939. Remarkable agreement between Olivier and Selznick International Pictures, Inc. In part: 'Producer hereby employs Artist to render his services exclusively to Producer as an actor, performer, and entertainer to portray the role of MAX DeWINTER in the motion picture photoplay now entitled REBECCA...Producer agrees to pay Artist salary at the rate of FOUR THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY-SIX AND 66/100 ($4,166.66) per week throughout the term hereof.' In fine condition with a few light creases and small staple holes along the left side.

This Rebecca contract—like the film’s story—is rich in Hollywood intrigue. The film was not only Selznick’s first release after Gone With the Wind, but also the first picture that Alfred Hitchcock directed in Hollywood...and the only one that won him an Academy Award for Best Picture. Selznick acquired the rights to the film in the hope of securing Ronald Colman to star as DeWinter. When Colman backed out of the project, Selznick turned to his second choices for the role, Olivier and William Powell—awarding this contract to Olivier,who was willing to work for $100,000 less than his competition. Hollywood contracts remain highly desirable, especially those from a legend like Olivier and an iconic film such as Rebecca! Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #367 - Ended February 09, 2011





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