Fantastic DS, signed “Alfred Hitchcock,” “James Stewart,” and “Doris Day,” one onionskin page, 8.5 x 11, January 12, 1962. Legal document headed “Re: ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’—Arbitration.’” In part: “Each of the undersigned hereby confirms to you that Mr. Louis W. Cook…has been retained by each of us as counsel in the above matter, and that statements made by Mr. Cook in this matter shall be binding upon each of us.” Signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by Hitchcock and in ballpoint by Stewart and Day. Expected document wear, wrinkling, and overall toning, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
The screenplay for the classic Hitchcock thriller starring Stewart and Day was written by John Michael Hayes based on a treatment by Angus MacPhail, and controversy erupted when Hayes objected to the submission of both names for writing credit; the ensuing arbitration before the Writers Guild of America judged Hayes the sole author. The rift that developed between Hitchcock and Hayes over the matter was irreconcilable, and despite the great success of their collaborative efforts—which also included Rear Window, To Catch a Thief, and The Trouble with Harry—The Man Who Knew Too Much marked the last time the pair worked together.
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