Mad Genius “Willy Wonka,” Meet Mad Doctor “Frederick Fronkensteen!” – Joe Moe
AUCTION PREVIEW – Brilliant and beloved Gene Wilder rare cast-signed photos on offer at Heritage Auctions
Gene Wilder (1933-2016) was one of those rare actors universally adored by practically every man, woman, and child who encountered him on the big or small screen. From the most cynical movie critic to the most hard-won fan, I’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t smile when they hear his name. Wilder was no fluke. Every role he took on projected his transcendent, positive spirit. He was known to be reclusive in private life, not often signing autographs at the typical fan venues and events. Featured in Heritage Auctions’ Dec. 5th Showcase, you’ll find three rare and exciting examples of Wilder-autographed treasures; two from the multi-generational fantasy favorite Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, and one from the epic Mel Brooks horror-comedy Young Frankenstein. Photos include additional, valuable cast signatures and come with impeccable authentication.
4614. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory Cast Signed Photo (Paramount, 1971)
20″ x 16″ photo signed by Gene Wilder (“Willy Wonka”), Peter Ostrum, (“Charlie Bucket”), Denise Nickerson, (“Violet Beauregarde”), Julie Dawn Cole, (“Veruca Salt”), Paris Themmen (“Mike Teevee”), and Michael Bollner (“Augustus Goop”). Comes with PSA/DNA LOA and a sticker for all six signatures, along with a sticker from Dugout.
4615. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory Cast Signed Poster Photo (Paramount, 1971)
12″ x 17″ photo signed by Gene Wilder (“Willy Wonka”), Peter Ostrum (“Charlie”), Julie Dawn Cole (“Veruca Salt”), Denise Nickerson (“Violet Beauregarde”), Paris Themmen (“Mike Teevee”), and Michael Bollner (“Augustus Gloop”). With PSA/DNA sticker for all six signatures (numbered “4A96523”), along with a sticker from Dugout (numbered “10194”). LOA from PSA/DNA. COA from Heritage Auctions.
Young Frankenstein Cast Signed Photo (TCF, 1974)
20″ x 16″ photo, featuring the cast in a candid moment on set with director Mel Brooks. Signed boldly in blue ink by Gene Wilder (“Frederick Frankenstein”), Teri Garr (“Inga”), and Mel Brooks (Director). COA and sticker from PSA/DNA, and sticker from Dugout.
As a younger man, I had the privilege of working with Gene Wilder on his short-lived 1994 TV series Something Wilder (if you call catering lunch “working with someone”). I was appropriately starstruck. Like so many movie fans, I was convinced Willy Wonka and Young Frankenstein were made just for me. Wilder was ever-aware and engaged on-set, unlike some TV stars so conditioned to constant scrutiny they “shut off” during moments they’re not on camera. With Gene Wilder, if you caught his eye even in passing, he’d hold your gaze and offer a warm smile or gentle nod. Every single time. He also made a point of thanking everyone repeatedly. I believe Gene Wilder’s incredible love of people made its way right through the camera, onto the screen, and into the hearts of a legion of fans who loved and miss his presence. Here’s a chance for you to possess a memento from your favorite films, signed by the actor who made them so memorable.
Happy Bidding! Hoping you prevail! – Joe Moe
“The suspense is terrible…I hope it’ll last.” – Willy Wonka
“Listen up my little Droogs.” There be some zammechat value to be had! – Michael Mansfield
Heritage has recently offered healthy-sized collections of vintage and contemporary photographs and this popular trend continues in the upcoming Dec. 5th Entertainment & Music Showcase Auction. There’s a lot to offer the most sophisticated photophile; from autographed photos to hefty lots of publicity images to some substantial movie still collections. Featuring subjects ranging from Anna May Wong to Marilyn Monroe. From Clint Eastwood’s “Dirty Harry” to Sean Connery’s “James Bond.”
Of the many terrific lots available, the one that really caught my eye was a group of (26) key set photographs from Stanley Kubrick’s 1971 masterpiece A Clockwork Orange. Many images feature Malcolm McDowell (Alex) in various scenes (some too racy to picture here) as well as Kubrick, cast, and crew behind-the-scenes. These vintage photographs retain their studio slugs at the bottom borders plus a double-weight photo retaining a paper info snipe on the verso.
These photos stir memories of the groundbreaking movie, reminding me of just how mind-blowing, edgy, and groundbreaking the film was, making me a lifelong fan of Kubrick’s work and of McDowell as an actor. That these photos were made at the very time of the movie’s release only adds to the nostalgia the photos summon in me. This set of studio production photos and many more can be yours. A holiday present to yourself this Dec. 5th, potentially for the price of a case of Milk-Plus!
What’s it going to be then, eh?
Michael Mansfield
A Hollywood Icon that Ended Poor Greedo’s Bounty Hunting Career! – Brian Chanes
Featured in Heritage Auctions’ December 5th Showcase, you’ll find a replica of Han Solo’s legendary DL-44 blaster signed by Harrison Ford – the actor who made the charismatic smuggler arguably the most popular character in the original Star Wars trilogy. The space-scoundrel-turned hero’s persona is irrevocably tied to his blaster pistol.
Han Solo’s character was modeled after the rogue gunslingers of the westerns that influenced creator George Lucas. Based on the German issue Mauser C96 pistol, this piece is a faithful replica of Han’s sidearm, including the scope and distinctive flash suppressor. The storied weapon is painted to appear distressed from use, with scuffing on the black finish and soiling on the grip. Harrison Ford signed his name in silver ink on the side-mounted scope. The signature was personally witnessed by a representative of Beckett Authentication Services and comes with a COA. An original screen-used prop Han Solo blaster would sell for $500,000+ in today’s market. For a limited budget, you can obtain an instantly-recognizable piece of Star Wars lore, signed by the legendary Hollywood star who brought Han Solo to life.
Brian Chanes