Original Old Classic Movie Film Theater posters Memorabilia Collectibles for Sale
The Best Years of Our Lives, 1946
Original Vintage Half Sheet Movie Poster (22x28")
Starring Fredric March, Dana Andrews, Virginia Mayo, Harold Russell
A FIRST for Cvtreasures !
This Rare stunning vintage half sheet movie poster is of particular interest to me personally. It has become my favorite movies all of time!
About 30 years ago I had the pleasure of meeting Harold Russell, the films scene stealer. Harold was a WWII Navy Veteran who lost both his hands in a War training exercise. After the war ended and "damaged" sailors and soldiers were returning home, a new film was in pre production and the Director William Wyler very much wanted Russell to be in the film. Russell rejected the offer several times, but eventually relented and gave an Academy Award winning performance. Not bad for someone who never acted before.
However, what I find puzzling (and annoying) is Russell was Uncredited on most all of the movie posters and lobby cards. Not only was his name omitted from the one sheet and other promotional poster versions, but there are no images of him. Of the two half sheet versions (A & B), ONLY this poster we are offering here has an image of Russell, albeit from behind, in uniform, being embraced by his beloved girlfriend and eventually wife. That ALONE makes this poster priceless !
This film was advertised as a “True Story” and I suspect Much of it was derived from Russell’s true to life experience when he returned home to civilian life. Not only to endure what even non war veterans do when they try to assimilate back to civilian life, but as a severely disabled Vet whose life was completely altered for a most difficult journey, in a world not designed for someone with no hands. Not to take anything away from the amazing acting by Fredric March and Dana Andrews, but it was two or three of Russell’s towering scenes that stole the film and the hearts of millions who have witnessed this Epic film. .
This prized half sheet is a personal thrill to discover, and I must admit I have great reservations about selling it. But, I hope whoever becomes the new owner has the same deep appreciation for not only this iconic post WWII movie poster, but the man who without his presence this memorable film would have been average and forgettable. And a bonus memorable performance by Virginia Mayo as the abhorrent, abusive villainess.
So, it is an honor to present to you the coveted half sheet for “Best Years of Our Lives” with War and human Hero Harold Russell. Arguably the Best post WW2 film ever made !
Condition: Excellent + Condition.
* See enlargeable image above
The Best Years of Our Lives (RKO, 1946). Rolled, Very Fine. Half Sheet (22" X 28") Style B. Academy Award Winner
Starring Myrna Loy, Fredric March, Dana Andrews, Teresa Wright, Virginia Mayo, Hoagy Carmichael, Cathy O'Donnell, Harold Russell, Gladys George, and Roman Bohnen. Directed by William Wyler. Lighly paper backed poster with bright color and a clean overall appearance. This near 80 year old poster had minor touch up to fold lines and border tears and now looks amazing.
Note: Cvtreasures stamp not on original
