Bombshells to Blasters, An Auction You Can't Refuse Pt. 1

First Time To Auction

MGM, 1962. Massive archive of (350+) pages of inside studio paperwork regarding the casting process for Mutiny on the Bounty . Includes correspondence, interoffice memos, handwritten lists, character considerations, pre-production information, salary negotiations, script draft details, and more. While it appears that the principals, Marlon Brando as "Fletcher Christian" and Trevor Howard as "Capt. Bligh" were decided upon early on, there are many other casting choices given just as much nuanced consideration. As for "Bligh," there's an early handwritten page of known actors in play for the role. Trevor Howard is a part of that list as well as Peter Finch, Peter Ustinov, Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton, Anthony Quale, Paul Schofield, Michael Rennie, Christopher Plummer, Stewart Granger, James Mason, and others. Such lists exist for many of the supporting cast considerations too. While the role of "Seaman John Mills" ultimately went to Richard Harris (Harris and James Mason bear checkmarks next to their names with Mason being marked, "N/A" - Not Available), early consideration was also given to Peter O'Toole, Cameron Mitchell, Peter Cushing, Rod Steiger, George C. Scott, Brian Keith, and others. There is much correspondence regarding Harris insisting on script revisions and other copious demands for participation. The pages are dated from 1960 right up to the year of production in 1962. This is an insider's peek into the pre-production of a major studio film of the era. The monumental task of choosing and then coordinating an all-star cast to be on the same page and all in the same place at once is staggering. There is also a cast salary sheet for the production with leads, Brando scheduled to make $500,000 and Howard $200,000. Constant juggling and negotiation. There is also interesting material to be found regarding the casting of Tahitian unknowns in native islander roles in the film. All material exhibits age, handling, with some brittle edges and discoloration not obscuring content. In overall vintage good to very good condition.