The Writer Speaks: Ernest Lehman - Part 1

Ernest Lehman, known for his work on films such as THE SOUND OF MUSIC, NORTH BY NORTHWEST, WEST SIDE STORY, and SABRINA, was one of the most critically and commercially successful writers in Hollywood history. He talks about the 1954 film Executive Suite, writing the screenplay for The King and I, and working with Alfred Hitchcock. Here, he is interviewed by Tony Curtis in 1997.

[@OldBittyGrandma]

So pleased to have stumbled upon this interview, especially the Sweet Smell of Success history. Thank you for posting.

[@James_Bowie]

At 32:48 ... a great insight into a key difference between writing for the screen and writing for the stage.

[@jimvines4194]

An insightful look at a stellar screenwriter. (Note: Curtis introduced the interview, but was NOT the interviewer.)

[@veritas6335]

Sabrina is an uninteresting and rather unsuccessful film, largely because Bogart is utterly miscast and not even slightly believable in the role. Holden is also miscast. He'd have been far better in the Bogart role. The film reflects the chaos under which it was written. The second Sabrina, with Harrison Ford, is infinitely better, and the secondary parts are perfectly cast and beautifully acted.

[@maximillianford9301]

Thank you for saying this. I thought I was going fucking crazy after watching it, disliking it intensely, looking up its reviews, and finding critical acclaim everywhere I looked. Bogart was never able to play anyone other than the tough guy who has about an inch of space in his heart for whoever the actress opposite was. He had the range of a midget's wingspan. Ridiculous dynamic in a ridiculous film. Thankfully, both Wilder and Lehman came through afterwards with some sublime works. North By Northwest and The Apartment would be tied as my favourite movies ever. Great work from both, and Wilder was always better as a writer