American author (1900–1949) whose single novel, Gone With the Wind, became one of the best-sellers of all time and spawned one of the most fabled movies in Hollywood history. She died after being struck by a speeding car at the age of 48. TLS signed “Margaret Mitchell Marsh,” one page, 7 x 11, personal letterhead, August 14, 1937. Gracious letter to an admirer regarding the upcoming Gone With the Wind film. In full: “Thank you so much for your letter and the complimentary things you wrote me about ‘Gone With the Wind.’ Thank you, too, for your interest in the forthcoming film of my novel. I know the rumor is widespread that I am going to Hollywood and that I have something to do with choosing the cast. But this is far from the truth, for I do not intend to go to Hollywood and I have no connection with the film production or influence in the matter of choosing the cast. I sold my novel outright and am not employed by the Selznick people even in a minor capacity. I know from what I read in the newspapers that the company which owns the movie rights is very anxious to have ‘new faces’ in the film, and they are now giving screen tests. When Mr. Cukor, the director of ‘Gone With the Wind’ was in Atlanta last winter looking over Southern backgrounds, he told me to tell anyone who was interested in trying out for a part to send pictures and state their qualifications and experience–if any. The address is Selznick International Pictures, Inc. 230 Park Avenue, New York, attention Mr. John Darrow. Mr. Darrow is the assistant director.” The letter has been removably archivally sleeved in acid free Mylar. In fine condition, with a horizontal mailing fold passing through signature.
One of the major blockbusters that made 1939 Hollywood’s golden year in films, Gone With the Wind became an overnight classic, immortalizing Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler as two of the greatest, most tumultuous lovers on the silver screen. The casting of these famed characters was a grandiose publicity campaign, one that Mitchell completely distanced herself from: “I do not intend to go to Hollywood and I have no connection with the film production or influence in the matter of choosing the cast... I know from what I read in the newspapers that the company which owns the movie rights is very anxious to have ‘new faces’ in the film, and they are now giving screen tests.” After two years of searching high and low for an actress to bring the fiery O’Hara to life, Myron Selznick, Hollywood agent and David’s brother, came across a fresh-faced British theater actress by the name of Vivien Leigh, who was determined to make a resounding debut in American cinema. Having just turned down the role of Isabella in Wuthering Heights, she got her chance; Myron arrived with Leigh during the screen test for ‘The Burning of Atlanta’ scene. The rest, as they say, is history, and both the movie and Leigh were immortalized. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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