[The] Story Teller [A Suspension of Mercy] (Original screenplay for the 1989 film)

N.p.: N.p., 1980. Draft script for the 1989 German film, for which Nigel Kneale was an uncredited screenwriter. Title and credits in manuscript ink on the front wrapper, with the label of American producer Wilbur Stark at the bottom right corner. Stark is best known as executive producer for "The Thing" (1982) and "Vampire Circus" (1972). At the stage of development represented by this script, Nigel Kneale was the screenwriter, though Stark eventually produced the film for Common Film in Germany, using German screenwriters to write a new adaptation.

A virtually unknown adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's 1965 novel "A Suspension of Mercy," published (truncated) in the US under the title "The Story-Teller," about an American novelist who is suspected of murdering his wife during a trial separation.

Noted Manx screenwriter Nigel Kneale is today best remembered for his work in television, particularly for the successful science fiction "Quatermass" series, as well as the well-regarded folk horror BBC television film "The Stone Tape." He was twice nominated for the BAFTA Award for Best British Screenplay, and also penned several collections of short stories, one of which won the Somerset Maugham Award in 1950.

Blue-gray wrappers with annotations in manuscript ink crediting screenwriter Nigel Kneale, novelist Patricia Highsmith, and producer Wilbur Stark. Title page integral with the front wrapper. 152 leaves, with last page of text numbered 152. Xerographic duplication on slick thermal paper stock, made from a UK master copy and then likely transmitted by wire from the UK to the US. Rectos only. Pages Near Fine, wrapper Very Good, moderately faded, with a few splashes and light wear on the front wrapper, bound with two gold brads. (Inventory #: 162972)