The making of the 1963 film "The Stripper" was fraught with challenges and changes that shaped its final form. Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and based on William Inge's play "A Loss of Roses," the film underwent several transformations from its initial conception to its release. This article delves into the production process, highlighting the obstacles and decisions that influenced the film's development.
From Stage to Screen
"The Stripper" began its journey as a stage
play titled "A Loss of Roses," which introduced Warren Beatty in the role of Kenny. Despite the play's initial failure, the film rights were sold to 20th Century Fox for a substantial sum. The transition from stage to screen involved significant changes, including a new script and a change in title to "Celebration" before settling on "The Stripper."
The film's production was initially assigned to Jerry Wald, with Alfred Hayes writing the screenplay. However, the project faced delays and changes in direction, with Jose Ferrer initially set to direct. When Ferrer left the project, Franklin J. Schaffner, known for his work in television, took over as director. Schaffner collaborated with screenwriter Meade Roberts to develop a new script, marking a fresh start for the film's production.
Casting and Production Challenges
Casting for "The Stripper" saw its own set of challenges. Joanne Woodward and Richard Beymer were eventually cast in the lead roles, both under contract with Fox. The film also featured real-life stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, adding authenticity to the portrayal of the striptease world. However, the production faced setbacks, including the death of producer Jerry Wald from a heart attack during filming.
Curtis Harrington, who worked as an associate producer, expressed mixed feelings about the cast and crew. While he admired Schaffner's direction, he found screenwriter Meade Roberts to be intensely neurotic, which added tension to the production process. Despite these challenges, the team managed to create a screenplay that captured the essence of the original play while adapting it for the screen.
Editing and Final Changes
The editing process for "The Stripper" involved significant changes, particularly at the behest of Daryl F. Zanuck. Schaffner's original cut included several musical sequences and a powerful scene where Woodward's character attempts suicide. However, Zanuck insisted on their removal, believing they disrupted the film's flow. These changes, along with the reinstatement of scenes with Carol Lynley and Richard Beymer, shaped the final version of the film.
Despite the challenges faced during production, "The Stripper" emerged as a film that captured the complexities of its characters and the world they inhabited. The behind-the-scenes decisions and changes played a crucial role in shaping the film's narrative and impact, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of cinema.
