My Son John [My Son, John]

Los Angeles: Paramount Pictures, 1951. Draft script for the 1952 film.

A Red Scare narrative wherein two all-American parents unsuccessfully attempt to lure their brainy son John away from the call of Communism. Actor Robert Walker unexpectedly died before production for the film ended, leading director Leo McCarey to heavily revise the script and edit in footage from Walker's scenes in Alfred Hitchcock's "Strangers on a Train" (1951) in order to finish the film.

Although nominated for an Oscar for Best Writing, and praised by the American Legion and Catholic Press Institute, the film was eviscerated by New York critics for its hot-blooded anti-intellectualism, bigotry, and push for conformity in the name of anti-Communism, a touchstone for the country's fears during the McCarthy era.

Titled self wrappers in the Paramount style. Distribution page present, with receipt intact. Title page present, dated February 27, 1951, noted as 1ST PRELIMINARY GREEN, with adaptation credits for John Lee Mahin. 135 leaves, with last page of text numbered 132. Mimeograph duplication on green stock, rectos only. Pages Very Good plus, with some fading and edgewear, wrapper Near Fine, bound with two gold brads.

Olive Films 418. Rosenbaum 1000. Selby US. Spicer US.

[Book #146109]