JAMES STEWART (1908-1997) Typed letter signed ‘James Stewart’addressed to Dr. A. Bauer at the XIV Internationale Filmfestspiele in Berlin, informing him that he will not be able to attend the International Film Festival, dated 24 April 1964

“… I regret that, because of my picture commitments here, I will be unable to attend…” 1p. on headed paper with his name and address in Beverly Hills. Receipt stamp by Internationale Filmfestspiele dated 27 April 1964. Binder holes in the left margin, not affecting the text. In English. Provenance: Private collection, South of France James Maitland Stewart, «Jimmy». A legendary American actor, his name is associated with several masterpieces of cinema. His filmography is exceptional, rich and varied. Alfred Bauer (1911-1986) was a German lawyer and film historian. He was a consultant to the Reich Film Board from 1942 to 1945 and directed the Berlinale from 1951 to 1976. The founding committee of the Berlin International Film Festival included both opponents and supporters of the defeated Nazi regime. Berlin International Film Festival (Internationale Filmfestspiele Berlin) The festival was launched in 1951, at the beginning of the Cold War, as a «showcase of the free world» for Berlin audiences. It was founded on the initiative of the American Jewish film officer Oscar Martay. It is one of the largest film festivals in the world, along with Cannes, Venice and Toronto, and is held every year in early February in Berlin. The festival was originally held in the summer, but since 1978 it has been held in February.