Description
The Joseph L. Mankiewicz papers span the years 1922-1992 (bulk 1949-1970s) and encompass circa 47
linear feet. The collection includes comprehensive production files and scripts for such films as THE
BAREFOOT CONTESSA (1954), CLEOPATRA (1963), GUYS AND DOLLS (1955), A LETTER TO THREE WIVES (1949), NO WAY
OUT (1950), THE QUIET AMERICAN (1958), and SLEUTH (1972). There are files on unproduced films, as well as
contracts, correspondence, scrapbooks, and photographs. Extensive documentation on the famous 1950
struggle for control of the Screen Directors Guild is of interest. The photograph series consists of
photographic prints and negatives of motion picture production and biography images.
Background
Joseph L. Mankiewicz was an American screenwriter, director, and producer active in film from 1929 to
1972. Mankiewicz received Academy Awards for writing and directing A LETTER TO THREE WIVES (1949) and for
writing and directing ALL ABOUT EVE (1950).
Extent
45 linear feet of papers.
1.9 linear feet of photographs.
Restrictions
Property rights to the physical object belong to the Margaret Herrick Library. Researchers are
responsible for obtaining all necessary rights, licenses, or permissions from the appropriate companies
or individuals before quoting from or publishing materials obtained from the library.
Availability
Available by appointment only.