Lenny (Original screenplay for the 1974 film)

N.p.: N.p., 1970. Second Draft script for the 1974 film.

In 1969, Julian Barry was hired by Columbia Pictures to write the screenplay for a dramatic biographical account of comedian Lenny Bruce's life. Shortly thereafter the project was delayed, reportedly due to studios' demand for romances as a result of Arthur Hiller's successful 1970 romantic drama "Love Story," leading Barry to approach theatre director Tom O'Horgan about adapting the screenplay for the stage. The play was a success, running on Broadway from May 1971 to June 1972, and earning its lead, Cliff Gorman, a Tony Award in 1972.

The finished film, completed two years later, was Bob Fosse's third directorial effort, and first non-musical, with standout performances by Dustin Hoffman as Bruce and Valerie Perrine as his wife Honey. A tour de force, shot in black and white, in a documentary style, interspersed with interviews, jumping back and forth from Bruce's early rise to fame to his twilight days and eventual death.

Nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay. Nominated for the Palme d'Or.

Green titled wrappers, noted as Second Draft and production No. 8895 on the front wrapper, dated May 19, 1970. Title page present, dated May 19, 1970, noted as Second Draft, with credits for Julian Barry. 152 leaves, with last page of text numbered 149. Xerographic duplication, rectos only. Pages Near Fine, wrapper Near Fine, bound with two gold brads.