Ben Hecht Author (2 results)

Western Union telegram, date-stamped February 1, 1957, from Ben Hecht to his agent Paul Kohner, regarding ongoing publisher concerns relating to a novel to have been titled "The Red Balloon." It seems likely that Hecht is referring to a novelization of the 1956 film of the same name, written for for the screen and directed by Albert Lamorisse. In the telegram Hecht notes that some original intention he had for the book discussed with Kohner (unknown to us) has been obviated by French publisher Hachette completing an American publication deal with Harper and Brothers. Below the printed text of the telegram, a note in manuscript pencil-presumably written by Kohner-reads "Let's write Oliver anyhow." Standard size Western Union telegram (8 x 5.75 inches) on their trademark printed stock, with the content present in typescript on strips of matching stock. Near Fine.…

Oversize double weight photograph of screenwriter Ben Hecht standing with his boss, producer and mogul extraordinaire David O. Selznick, on a snow covered set in the Italian Alps during the 1957 filming of Selznick's "A Farewell to Arms." Based on the 1929 novel by Ernest Hemingway, directed by Charles Vidor, and starring Rock Hudson and Jennifer Jones. The second time the novel was filmed, following the 1932 version directed by Frank Borzage, and preceding a three part British television miniseries in 1966. 11 x 13.5 inches. Near Fine, with a small corner crease at the bottom right. In a custom museum-quality frame, archivally mounted, with UV glass.…