Beyond the Valley of the Dolls

N.p. N.p., Circa 1970. Collection of three vintage reference photographs taken on the set of the 1970 film, two showing director Russ Meyer with actress Phyllis Davis between takes, and one showing Meyer directing Dolly Read and Michael Blodgett. One photograph with a printed mimeo snipe affixed to the verso, and all three photographs with library stamps and provenance labels on the versos.

After nearly a decade as one of America's most successful independent filmmakers, sexploitation auteur Russ Meyer first reached out for the brass ring of major studio success with this frantic and most entertaining cult favorite, once described by Meyer and screenwriter Roger Ebert as "the first exploitation-horror-camp-musical." The film follows three members of an all-girl rock band called The Kelly Affair who relocate to Hollywood in search of fame and fortune. Their success comes at the price of their friendship and integrity, however, and the girls eventually succumb to a nonstop train of decadence, drugs, and betrayal. Featuring one-hit wonders the Strawberry Alarm Clock, supporting performances by Meyer regulars Charles Napier and Haji, and a bit part from future blaxploitation icon Pam Grier, the film proved to be Meyer's biggest box-office success.

Set and shot on location in Hollywood.

8 x 10 inches. Near Fine.

Criterion Collection 836.

[Book #156306]