The Snake Pit

Los Angeles: Twentieth Century-Fox, 1947. First Draft Continuity script (pre-production) for the 1948 film. Copy belonging to art director Joseph C. Wright, with his name in manuscript ink on the front wrapper.

Based on the 1946 semi-autobiographical novel of the same name by Mary Jane Ward about a woman who suffers a psychological breakdown, and her long recovery at a mental institution. Filming was preceded by three months of intense research by director Anatole Litvak in an attempt to accurately portray practices used by mental institutions of the day, including hydrotherapy and electric shock treatments. The film had such an effect on audiences that it is said to have led to psychiatric facility reforms in many states. Winner of an Academy Award and nominated for five others, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, and Best Actress of Olivia de Havilland.

Orange titled wrappers, noted as FIRST DRAFT CONTINUITY on the front wrapper, rubber-stamped copy No. 80 and production No. 155, dated May 5, 1947. Distribution page present, with receipt removed. Title page present, dated May 5, 1947, noted as 1ST DRAFT CONTINUITY, with credits for screenwriters Frank Partos and Millen Brand. 143 leaves, with last page of text numbered 141. Mimeograph duplication, rectos only. Pages Fine, encapsulated wrapper Very Good, bound with three gold brads.

Grant US. Selby US. Spicer US.

[Book #144380]