Legendary British-born film director of the classics Frankenstein, The Invisible Man and Showboat, among others. As horror movies lost favor, he retreated to a more private and hedonistic life including painting and all-male pool parties, at one point separating from his longtime lover David Lewis, suffering several strokes, finally committing suicide by drowning in his pool (he was afraid of water). His suicide note, to Lewis, read “The future is just old age and illness and pain…I must have peace and this is the only way.” He was later the subject of the film Gods and Monsters. ALS signed “James,” one page both sides, 8.5 x 11, Paramount Famous Lasky Corporation letterhead, June 4. Letter to Marguerite. In part, “I am sorry to have been so long answering your note re: 100 year old props...‘The Old Lady Shows her Medals’ by Barrie so have been busy. No prop is valuable so if they are expensive & I think they most certainly are, I should substitute cheaper ones. The large painting can be easily duplicated...the frame is useful in the composition, but the ‘commode’ is of no importance whatever...I am most grateful & of course love to have them, together with your delicious gossip of Broadway...I have not actually started production yet but I hear vaguely that they mean to take up my option. Perhaps when I do a bit of shooting they will change their minds.” In fine condition, with expected folds, a small staple hole to one corner, and writing from opposite sides showing through slightly. R&R COA.
