Orson Welles – Joanne Woodward – The Long Hot Summer – November 19th 1957 – Original Press Photograph

Publisher: Associated Press
Price: £40.00
Date: November 19th 1957
Photograph Size: 20.6cm x 16.2cm including margins
Format: Original Press Photograph
Condition: Very good
Edition: Not stated.

Details:

Predates the release date of March 13th, 1958. Dated to the reverse and with the stamp of the Shield Gazette. Slightly creased, marked and rubbed but in very good condition. Scarce.

A Long Hot Summer: A Short Description

The Long, Hot Summer is a 1958 American drama film directed by Martin Ritt, based on a combination of works by William Faulkner, primarily his 1931 novella Spotted Horses, as well as elements from The Hamlet and The Town. The film stars Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward, Orson Welles, Lee Remick, and Angela Lansbury. Set in the deep South, The Long, Hot Summer explores themes of ambition, power, family dynamics, and desire, all under the oppressive heat of a Mississippi summer.

Plot Summary

The story centres on Ben Quick (Paul Newman), a young and ambitious drifter with a troubled past, who arrives in a small Mississippi town after being accused of barn burning. Quick soon comes under the scrutiny of the town’s wealthiest and most influential man, Will Varner (Orson Welles), a powerful, domineering patriarch who owns most of the land and businesses. Recognising Quick’s ruthlessness and ambition, Varner takes an interest in him, seeing him as a man cut from the same cloth and someone who could help expand his empire.

Varner has a complex relationship with his children, particularly his daughter Clara (Joanne Woodward), a strong-willed schoolteacher who is unimpressed by Quick’s roguish charm. Varner’s pressure on Clara to marry so she can provide heirs weighs heavily on her, and he sees Quick as a perfect match, despite their initial antagonism. As Varner continues to manipulate those around him, Quick and Clara engage in a charged battle of wills, struggling between attraction and resistance.

Themes and Symbolism

The sweltering Mississippi heat is almost a character in itself, creating a charged, claustrophobic atmosphere that mirrors the simmering tensions between the characters. The oppressive climate reflects the intensity of the family’s internal struggles, as well as the passionate and often volatile relationships. Quick’s fiery ambition, Clara’s inner conflict, and Varner’s desire to control his legacy all play out under the relentless heat, intensifying each scene’s emotional stakes.

Themes of power, inheritance, and social mobility are prominent, as Quick is willing to do whatever it takes to climb the social ladder. The film explores the complex layers of Southern family life and tradition, particularly through Varner’s expectations of his children and his vision for his family’s future.

Cast and Performances

The Long, Hot Summer is noted for its stellar cast, with Paul Newman delivering a charismatic, smouldering performance as Ben Quick. His chemistry with Joanne Woodward (who later became his wife) adds a compelling romantic and competitive edge to their scenes. Orson Welles delivers a larger-than-life portrayal of Will Varner, a character both formidable and flawed, while Angela Lansbury adds nuance to her role as Varner’s long-time lover, providing both comic relief and moments of insight.

Reception and Legacy

The film was well-received upon its release, praised for its compelling performances and Ritt’s skilful direction, which brought Faulkner’s Southern Gothic world to life. Paul Newman won the Best Actor Award at the Cannes Film Festival for his performance, further establishing his career as a leading man. The Long, Hot Summer also marked the beginning of Newman and Woodward’s lifelong partnership, both on and off the screen.

Today, The Long, Hot Summer is remembered as a classic Southern drama, capturing the intense, slow-burning passions and power struggles that characterize Faulkner’s work. Its exploration of human desire, ambition, and familial bonds remains timeless, and the film is considered an essential watch for fans of Southern Gothic cinema and classic Hollywood dramas.

Location: Map drawer C: Folder: 6001: 6002F 002505

Why Buy From Us?

At Hornseys, we only offer items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of prints and photographs is carefully curated to ensure each piece is authentic.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Every photograph is researched, collated, and verified for authenticity.
• Expert Curation: Each photograph is selected with a keen eye for historical significance, condition, and rarity, ensuring a collection that is both diverse and distinguished.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, items may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

Explore Our Collection:
Visit Hornseys to explore our fine collection of rare and antique prints and photographs. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a unique historical piece, our selection offers something truly exceptional. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for art enthusiasts, historians, and collectors since 1976.

Thank you for looking.