Question 1

What real-life director's photo was used to get Linda Darnell's scornful look in one scene?

Accepted Answer

Director Joseph L. Mankiewicz used a picture of Otto Preminger, who had given Darnell a hard time on another film, to get her proper look of derision.

Question 2

How did director Joseph L. Mankiewicz get revenge on censors who banned certain words?

Accepted Answer

He created a famous double-entendre laden exchange using words like 'penetration' and 'saturation' after censors wouldn't permit words like 'laxative' and 'toilet'.

Question 3

Which legendary character actress gave an excellent but uncredited performance in this film?

Accepted Answer

Thelma Ritter played her usual wisecracking self superbly in one of her first films, but she was uncredited for her performance.

Question 4

What was the inspiration for Kirk Douglas's character in the film?

Accepted Answer

The Kirk Douglas character was based on director Joseph L. Mankiewicz's own father.

Question 5

What major awards did this film receive recognition from?

Accepted Answer

It received awards from the Directors Guild of America (1949), National Board of Review (1949), Academy Awards (1950), and Writers Guild of America (1950).

Loved this film?

Share with others

Loved this film?

Share with others

A Letter to Three Wives

Customers also watched