Letter: Kubrick's pies
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: In his admirable obituary of Stanley Kubrick (9 March), James Kirkup refers to "Terry Southern's Dr Strangelove". It is true that Terry is credited with writing the script, but to my knowledge, both Kubrick himself and Peter George, author of Red Alert, the novel that was the original source of the film, made significant contributions.
As the publisher of Red Alert in 1963, I made several journeys to Shepperton to meet Stanley. While at Shepperton, and waiting outside the huge stage that formed the war-room for a "take" to be completed, I was chatting to the actor Peter Bull, when we both noticed a pile of crates containing custard-pies, destined for the famous throwing scene in the movie. Each of the crates was personally addressed to Stanley Kubrick and the purveyor was none other than Fortnum and Mason. Could it have been anyone else?
ALAN EARNEY
Former Editorial Director, Corgi Books
London W13
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments