Billy Wilder papers, 1935-1976, bulk 1943-1961

Collection context

Summary

Creators:
Wilder, Billy
Extent:
3 linear feet of papers.
Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

The Billy Wilder papers span the years 1935-1976 (bulk 1943-1961) and encompass 3 linear feet. The collection contains production material and/or correspondence for nine films directed by Wilder and released between 1944 and 1960. The films are THE APARTMENT (1960), THE BIG CARNIVAL (1951), DOUBLE INDEMNITY (1944), A FOREIGN AFFAIR (1948), THE FORTUNE COOKIE (1966), THE LOST WEEKEND (1945), THE SEVEN YEAR ITCH (1955), SOME LIKE IT HOT (1959), and THE SPIRIT OF ST. LOUIS (1957). The bulk of the material is scripts, clippings, and correspondence. Some correspondence is addressed to Charles Brackett.

Biographical / historical:

Billy Wilder was an Austrian-born director, screenwriter, and producer most active in film from the 1930s through 1970s. After beginning his film career in Germany, he came to the U.S. in 1934. From 1938 to 1950, he collaborated with screenwriter and producer Charles Brackett. Four of Wilder? six Academy Awards are for writing and directing THE LOST WEEKEND (1945) and THE APARTMENT (1960), and he was the recipient of the 1987 Irving G. Thalberg memorial award.

Acquisition information:
Acquired by the library, 2008
Arrangement:

Arranged in the following series: 1. Production files

Rules or conventions:
Finding aid prepared using Describing Archives: a Content Standard

Access and use

Location of this collection:
333 S. La Cienega Blvd
Beverly Hills, CA 90211, US
Contact:
(310) 247-3036 extension 2226