The Defiant Ones

N.p. Curtleigh Productions, 1958. Vintage US three-sheet poster for the 1958 US film. The film won two Academy Awards, for best writing and cinematography, and was nominated for another seven.

Tony Curtis and Sidney Poitier were lauded for their performances in this Academy Award winning drama, in which two prisoners from a chain-gang escape. One white, one African American, the men originally cooperate out of necessity, as they are chained to one another. However, as they grow familiar with one another, a deep bond and mutual respect develops between the men.

"The Defiant Ones" was shot on a closed set due to the then-provocative subject matter. Special screenings were orchestrated in the southern United States for integrated audiences, a relatively uncommon occurrence at the time. Montgomery, Alabama, however, chose to cancel an integrated screening when the White Citizen's Committee Council protested the film, claiming it gave rise to "moral support and financial gain to subversive propagandists" (AFI catalogue).

Set in the American South, shot on location in California.

41 x 81 inches, folded. Very Good, with numerous pin holes, moderate edgewear, and extensive tape reinforcements to the verso. Manuscript annotations to the verso and a stamp indicating three-sheet poster.

Royal Books can arrange for archival linen backing of posters. Please inquire.

[Book #139877]