Three First-Draft Shooting Scripts from 1923 Ruth Roland Serial

These are one-of-a-kind items for the discriminating fan and collector of movie-serial history and memorabilia: original shooting scripts written for Episodes Three, Four, and Five of the 1923 Pathé serial Riddle of the Range, which starred top-ranking serial queen Ruth Roland. Working one chapter at a time from an original story being developed by novelist and pioneering scenario writer Gilson Willets, scripter John W. Grey was stymied when Willets unexpectedly died before completing the plot, leaving no solution to the mystery established in early installments. The serial’s writing was completed by old chapter-play hand Frank Leon Smith, who left Pathé’s New York headquarters to go west and not only finish scripting but also take charge of production, which had already begun. Smith altered the story considerably and jettisoned some footage already shot, as confirmed by a reading of chapter synopses that appeared in copyright documents for Ruth of the Range, as the serial was retitled. The hastily executed salvage job wasn’t successful and the filmflopped badly, ending Roland’s career as a serial queen.

These scripts all have a name pencilled on the front covers; presumably this was somebody connected with the production in its early days before Willets died. Condition: Very Good. The blue-paper covers have some edge wear but the exterior pages have been reproduced on what appears to be paper used on carbon copies: it’s very thin, almost waxy and tissue-like, but durable. They can be easily handled and read. Don’t miss a chance to get these unique items of serial history.

SORRY, BUT THIS ITEM IS AVAILABLE TO DOMESTIC U.S. BUYERS ONLY.  COST OF MAILING INCLUDED IN PURCHASE PRICE.