TARKINGTON, Booth (1869-1946). Autograph letter signed ("Booth Tarkington"). Indianapolis, 4 December 1923. After a courtesy viewing of John Ford's 1923 adaptation of Tarkington's play Cameo Kirby.
2 pages, 8vo, on 4270 North Meridian Street letterhead, mounted to cardstock and matted.
Tarkington writes in appreciation: "I greatly enjoyed the view you were so kind as to arrange for me of 'Cameo Kirby' in picture form." Tarkington wrote the play in 1909 in conjunction with Harry Leon Wilson and was made into a film on three separate occasions, first in a 1914 silent film directed by Oscar Apfel, a later 1930 film directed by Irving Cummings, and this adaptation directed by John Ford. Here, Tarkington expresses his admiration for the adaptation: "the photography is perfect and presents a great deal of sheer beauty. Added to this, the color of a distinct speech is preserved, and there is a continuity of action that holds one's interest at every moment." He especially appreciates the lead actor, John Gilbert (1897-1936): "Mr. Gilbert is one of the most picturesque earnest young actors I have ever seen and was a perfect choice for that restless and somewhat unconventional person "Cameo Kirby."
This lot is located in Cincinnati.
