Archive of correspondence between producer Leland Hayward and Daniel Selznick regarding "My Six Convicts," 1969-1970

1970. Small archive including two typed letters signed from producer Leland Hayard to producer David O. Selznick regarding a new adaptation of the 1951 autobiographical novel "My Six Convicts." Also included are photostat copies of Selznick's enthusiastic responses to same.

In the first of the two letters, Hayward briefly notes that he is sending Selznick a copy of Wilson's novel to consider. In the second letter, written on personal stationery with an address on Madison Avenue in New York, Hayward goes on at length regarding the possibilities of a new adaptation of the book, noting that the 1952 Stanley Kramer adaptation was "a lousy one for my taste." He goes on to note that while the language in the book-which is about a psychologist's attempt to reform six different inmates-is fairly dated, the story itself has all kinds of possibilities for melodrama and humor.

Leland Hayward was a Hollywood and Broadway agent, best known for his original productions of "South Pacific" and "The Sound of Music," "Mister Roberts" (both the play and the film), and "The Spirit of St. Louis."

Daniel Selznick, the son of David O. Selznick, is best known as a producer for films such as Peter Bogdanovich's "Targets" (1968) and various documentaries about Hollywood. His association with his father allowed him many opportunities to meet and correspond with numerous actors, actresses, and directors of note.

Two letters: 8 x 10 inches. Near Fine.