Death of a Scoundrel

Culver City, CA: RKO Radio Pictures, 1955. Second Revised Draft script for the 1956 film noir. Loosely based on the death of Russian-born financier Serge Rubinstein. Copy belonging to Guy Prescott, who plays an uncredited role in the film as the assistant to Captain LaFarge (played by Morris Ankrum), with Prescott's manuscript annotations at the inclusion of his dialogue and appearances.

George Sanders plays a wealthy, hated businessman who has conned his way to the top and, as the film begins, has been found murdered. We see his life in a series of flashbacks as it is told to the police by his secretary and fellow con artist Yvonne DeCarlo. One of only two films in which Saunders and his real-life brother Tom Conway also play brothers onscreen.

Shot on location in New York City and California.

Tan titled wrappers, noted as 2ND REVISION on the front wrapper, copy No. 54, dated December 29, 1955, with credits for producer Charles Martin. Title page present, dated December 29, 1955, noted as 2ND REVISE, with credits for screenwriter/producer Martin. 179 leaves, with last page of text numbered 190. Mimeograph duplication, rectos only, with blue and pink undated revision pages throughout. Pages Near Fine, wrapper Very Good plus, bound with two gold brads.

Grant US. Selby US. Spicer US.

[Book #144737]