Bedazzled - Unused Opening Scene
Here is the original, unused and to date unpublished opening scene of Stanley Donen’s 1967 film Bedazzled, written by and starring Peter Cook and Dudley Moore. This scene is the entirety of the first page of a screenplay dated 13th April 1967.
INT. STANLEY DONEN’S OFFICE
STANLEY DONEN is leaning casually against the mantlepiece
in his elegant office. He becomes aware of the audience
and strolls toward the camera.
DONEN
My name is Stanley Donen. I am the
producer and director of the film
“Bedazzled” that you have come to this
theatre to see. As producer and director
I have naturally been closely concerned
with every facet of its making. Having
recently been shown a final print of the
picture I was astonished to find that
it contained elements and attitudes that
could be interpreted in a way that I at
no time intended. I have never been one
to stifle artistic endeavor or free
expression of ideas but I cannot lend my
name to any enterprise that might in any
way adversely influence immature minds.
I have shown this film to a broad spectrum
of responsible citizens and can only concur
with their unanimous assessment that it
might cause irreparable damage to unformed
personalities. I refer of course to you.
Therefore it is with great regret that I
have decided to withdraw “Bedazzled” from
distribution. In its place you will see
an hour and a half documentary on the
Canadian Rockies.The DEVIL, a two inch sprite tiptoes up to DONEN’s ear.
Stanley, Stanley - this film costDEVIL
millions of dollars - you’ll lose it
all - you’ll go bankrupt if you don’t
show it.
DONENLet him that is without sin - or to
put it another way - Judge not lest ye
judge incorrectly. It is with great
pride and pleasure that I present -
“BEDAZZLED”CREDIT TITLES
