The Library of Roger Wagner - PBA Galleries

LAWSUIT OVER “OBSCENE” FILM
152. miller, henry. File regarding the film of and lawsuit over Quiet Days in Clichy. File includes letters
from Miller’s lawyer, a few carbon letters from Miller (signed), one in particular to his lawyer detailing
reasons the film should not be judged obscene and with numerous holograph additions by Miller;
newspaper clippings, film monetary accounts, telegrams, reports of international openings and
censorships (particularly in Canada - Scandinavia seems to have embraced the film the most), signed
film rights between Miller and Knud Thorbjornsen; a TLs from Hans Reitzel to Miller regarding the
film; signed carbon letters between director Jens Thorsen and Henry Miller (including one in which
Miller criticizes the film’s actors), publicity, etc.
Various places: [c.1970-1975]
The film version of Henry Miller’s Quiet Days in Clichy was seized by U.S. Customs when it
arrived in the Port of Los Angeles and impounded to await a trial on the charge of obscenity.
That trial was held on July 6, 1970 before Federal Judge William P. Gray, who ruled that the film
was not obscene, and was soon released to arthouse theatres around the country. Very good.
(1500/2000)
Lot 152
153. miller, henry. Folder of correspondence, photographs and ephemera relating to the film rights and publicity
for Just Wild About Harry. Folder includes the signed film agreement between Henry Miller and Robert
Bushnell (as well as 2 signed addenda), foreign contracts, proposals, etc. Also contains 7x9½ (out of
focus) color photograph of the cast, their names on verso in ink, a flier for the production, and a
typescript of a play by Miller in French.
Various places: c.1968
Interesting look at materials relating to the film rights, publicity, etc. for Just Wild About Harry,
adapted from Miller’s book A Smile at the Foot of the Ladder. Fine.
(600/900)
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