How I Won the War (Original screenplay for the 1967 film, John Lennon's copy) by Lennon, John (starring); Richard Lester (director); Charles Wood (screenwriter); Patrick Ryan (novel); John Lennon, Ronald Lacey, Michael Crawford (starring) - 1966

Beverly Hills, CA: Petersham Pictures / United Artists, 1966. Draft British script for the 1967 film. Based on the 1963 novel by Patrick Ryan. Copy likely belonging to John Lennon, with lines for his character Gripweed circled or stricken exclusively in holograph ink throughout. Also included is a separate call sheet for Monday, October 24, 1966, mentioning Lennon and his character specifically. "How I Won the War" follows a small company of British infantry in North Africa during World War II, with a heaping spoonful of stylized cinematography, fourth wall breaking, newsreel footage, and slapstick, absurdist humor. One of the first anti-war films of the late 1960s that reflected the souring public opinion of the Vietnam War, and arguably director Richard Lester's first "serious" film. John Lennon's circular-rim glasses, which, while originally a prop for the film, would be the signature frames he would wear for the rest of his life. He spent every day of production on set, even when not required to be there, purportedly because he enjoyed being treated as a normal person. Ringo Starr kept Lennon company during much of his time in Spain as well, and Lennon wrote "Strawberry Fields Forever" while on location. Set in Europe and North Africa, shot on location in Spain and Germany. Gray wrappers with a die-cut title window in the British style. Title page not present, possibly as issued. 122 leaves, with last page of text numbered 129. Mimeograph duplication, rectos only. Pages Very Good plus, wrapper Very Good, bound internally with two silver brads. Provenance available on request.