The Bridge on the River Kwai: The Story of the Film.

HOUGHTON, Claude; Pierre Boulle; Alec Guinness; Jack Hawkins.

$2,250.00

Item Number: 147872

England: Moore & Matthes Ltd., 1957.

Original brochure celebrating the David Lean war film ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’ with the story of the film by Claude Houghton, based on the screenplay written by Pierre Boulle. Real wood block measuring 4.75 inches by 2.75 inches affixed to front cover, inscribed, “This bridge was designed and constructed by soldiers of the British Army Feb – May 1943 Lt.Col. L Nicholson, D.S.O Commanding.” Oblong quarto, original wrappers, illustrated with black and white photographs of the cast and film. Boldly signed by Alec Guinness and Jack Hawkins on the title page. In very good condition. The entire piece measures 14 inches by 10 inches. Rare and desirable signed.

The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957), directed by David Lean, is a critically acclaimed war film that explores themes of duty, honor, and the psychological complexities of war. Based on Pierre Boulle’s novel, the film is set during World War II and follows British prisoners of war forced by the Japanese to construct a railway bridge in Burma. The central conflict arises between Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness), who sees the bridge as a testament to British ingenuity and discipline, and the pragmatic Allied forces who seek to destroy it. The film masterfully critiques the absurdity of war, illustrating how personal pride and misplaced loyalty can lead to unintended consequences. Its cinematography, gripping narrative, and moral dilemmas make it a landmark in cinematic history, earning multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture.