[FILM]. SHYLEN, Ben. Typed letter signed ("Ben"), as Boxoffice publisher. N.p., 15 March 1946. How best to promote African American theaters and actors. [With:] 2 window cards for films starring Mantan Moreland.

SHYLEN, Ben. Typed letter signed ("Ben"), as Boxoffice publisher. N.p., 15 March 1946.

1 page, 4to, 8 1/2 x 11 in., toned, small chip to lower right.

Shylen writes to Ste Edwards of Republic Pictures corporation: "On a recent trip I met an exhibitor who operates a chain of Negro houses. Discussing his operation, he told me of the great value he finds in toplining the names of Negro performers -- even those having bit parts -- in regular features." He continues that the exhibitor had difficulty finding the correct information, inspiring Shylen: "So here's a thought: Could you, in your pressbooks on pictures in which Negro players appear, identify such players, either in a special box or under the regular listing of the cast; or in some other way? This would also enable BOXOFFICE to make note of such information."

[With:] Lucky Star Productions Presents "What a Guy" with Mantan Moreland. [New York]: Toddy Pictures Co., [1948].

13 7/8 x 22 in. window card printed in red and blue (toned, creases).

[Also with:] Mantan Moreland in "She's too Mean for Me". New York: Toddy Pictures Co., [1948].

8 1/2 x 11 1/4 in. press sheet printed in blue and red (minor toning). Illustrated extensively with movie scenes and a price list for advertising sheets, stills, heralds, and window cards.

Mantan Moreland (1902-1973) was a Black actor who saw widespread popularity in the 1930s and 1940s starring in comedic films with all Black casts. Both examples are from 1948, the zenith of Moreland's career when he starred in 10 feature-length films.

Property from a 35-Year Collection from the Southern United States

This lot is located in Cincinnati.

[FILM]. SHYLEN, Ben. Typed letter signed ("Ben"), as Boxoffice publisher. N.p., 15 March 1946. How best to promote African American theaters and actors. [With:] 2 window cards for films starring Mantan Moreland.