Spartacus: The Illustrated Story of the Motion Picture Production, Stan Margulies (editor). Published by Bryna, 1960. Souvenir book for the 1960 Spartacus film directed by Stanley Kubrick. Cast included Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Jean Simmons, Charles Laughton, Peter Ustinov, and Tony Curtis. Laminated boards. 4to – over 9¾” – 12″ tall; 36 pp. illustrated in colour. Contents in fine condition; wear to edges of boards.
The book begins with a brief introduction to the historical background of Spartacus, the gladiator who led a slave revolt against the Roman Empire. It then delves into the making of the movie. Margulies provides detailed accounts of the challenges faced by the cast and crew during the filming, including the difficulties of shooting in remote locations and the clashes between Kubrick and Douglas over creative decisions. Margulies also explores the impact of Spartacus on the film industry, including its role in breaking the Hollywood blacklist and paving the way for other epic historical dramas.
