Eric Chaim Kline, Bookseller - Old and Rare Books

13 Colored Film Stills, From the German Release of the Paul Robeson Film "Sanders of the River" [WITH] An Issue of German "Die Dame" Women's Magazine

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[Munich/Berlin]: Bayern Films (Bavaria Filmkunst GmbH), [1935]. Loose leaf. Collection of 13 extremely scarce colored film stills for the British production "Sanders of the River". These would have likely been used as promotional lobby cards (transparencies) in cinemas, for the German release for the film under the title "Bosambo".

The German title of the film comes from the main supporting role of the film, played by the acclaimed African-American actor, singer and political activist Paul Robeson. The film, directed by Hungarian-born film director Zoltan Korda, was based on a series of short stories by British novelist Edgar Wallace, and was set in Colonial Nigeria. In addition to Robeson the film featured other notable actors of the era including Leslie Banks, Nina Mae McKinney and Orlando Martins. Of interesting note is that future founding father of Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta, appeared as an extra in the film, while living in London. Acclaimed filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock allegedly directed some early sequences for the film but was uncredited.

Robeson is shown in 6 of the images, including a close-up character portrait shot. Each image measures approx. 11 1/2 x 9 1/4". These images are incredibly scarce, especially being colored stills from the era. It is safe to say that these are the only known pre-war colored film stills of Robeson.

Each print contains a blind-stamp of the German film authority in Berlin (Reich Chamber of Film), at the time of the Third Reich. Surprisingly the film was approved to be shown in Nazi Germany, likely because its portrayal of colonialism and Africans fit in line with their ideals. During post-production the film was edited in a way that seemed to endorse colonial rule and diminish Robeson's character and that of the other black actors. Upon release Robeson was embarrassed and angered by the film, and regretted his involvement. With regard to the film, he was quoted as saying: "It is the only film of mine that can be shown in Italy or Germany, for it shows the Negro as Fascist states desire him - savage and childish." He is said to have attempted but failed to personally buy up all copies of the film to have prevent it from being shown.

A few of the prints with stains, mostly confined to the margins. Images clean and vibrant overall. In good+ to near fine condition.

[WITH]

"Die Dame", volume 59, issue 10, February 1st, 1932. Pioneering German women's magazine. Pages 7-8 contain a short photo-illustrated article on Paul Robeson and his career. g+ to near fine. Item #55084

Price: $4,500.00