Scorpio Rising

N.p. N.p., Circa 1963. Collection of two vintage borderless reference photographs and one vintage matte-finish contact sheet blowup from the 1963 film. One photograph with a mimeo snipe specific to the film's 1964 West German release on the verso.

A homoerotic, sadomasochistic biker epic, exploring the significance of rebel icons (such as James Dean and Marlon Brando) throughout American cinematic history. A controversial and groundbreaking film, seized by the Hollywood vice squad after its premiere run at the Cinema on Western Avenue in 1963, and held on trial for obscene content before the California Supreme Court. (Luckily, the case was eventually settled in Kenneth Anger's favor.)

Anger, one of the most significant filmmakers to come out of the American avant-garde in the mid-1960s, was born in Southern California and began making films when he was only ten years old. His work often featured occult and homosexual themes, with the writings of English gnostic poet Aleister Crowley being a notable influence. His 1953 film "Eaux d'Artifice" was selected for the National Film Registry in 1993.

One photograph 9.75 x 8 inches, the other photograph 9.5 x 4.5 inches, trimmed irregularly. Very Good plus overall.

Contact sheet 8.5 x 11 inches. Very Good plus overall.

[Book #151754]