University of Michigan Acquires Lawrence Kasdan’s Film Archives

The University of Michigan has officially acquired the film archives of renowned screenwriter and director Lawrence Kasdan, known for his work on the “Indiana Jones” and “Star Wars” franchises. This significant addition to the UM Library’s Screen Arts Mavericks and Makers Collection was announced in a December 11 update by the University Record. The collection, which also includes papers from notable filmmakers such as Orson Welles and Robert Altman, will provide invaluable resources for researchers and film enthusiasts alike.

Initially, researchers will have access to materials related to films from the 1980s. The complete archive will include unsold and unproduced scripts, along with photographs from a deleted scene featuring actor Kevin Costner in the film “The Big Chill,” which tells the story of University of Michigan alumni. The entire collection is expected to be finalized within the next 18 months.

Rich History and Impact of Lawrence Kasdan

Kasdan’s career has been marked by a distinctive ability to navigate the studio system while directing his own screenplays, a feat not commonly achieved by many in the industry. According to Philip Hallman, the film studies field librarian at UM overseeing the organization of Kasdan’s works, his films are infused with his unique perspective and vision.

Hallman has completed approximately one-third of the organizational work required to make the archives accessible. He emphasized the importance of Kasdan’s contributions to cinema, noting that his diverse interests in genres—from Westerns to screwball comedies—reflect a broad understanding of storytelling. “Moviegoing for him was about all the different genres,” Hallman stated.

The archive’s organization has been facilitated by Kasdan’s commitment to preserving his work. “I valued the records, and I wanted them compiled into an archive in case someone wanted them,” Kasdan explained. His meticulous approach is evident in the well-organized nature of the archives, which include various collections documenting his filmmaking processes.

From Student to Screenwriter: Kasdan’s Journey

Kasdan, who earned his bachelor’s degree in 1970 and a master’s degree in 1972 from the University of Michigan, was motivated to attend the university after hearing about the prestigious Hopwood Awards Program, which has a history of supporting renowned writers, including Arthur Miller. While at UM, he was an active member of the Cinema Guild, a student organization that screened films for the university community. Reflecting on his time there, he recalled, “It was a crazy, wonderful time. It was like a starving man suddenly offered all this stuff to eat.”

Despite his successes, Kasdan faced numerous challenges, including a staggering 67 rejections for his screenplay of “The Bodyguard.” His resilience and versatility have since established him as a significant figure in the film industry, with notable credits including “Body Heat,” “Silverado,” and “The Accidental Tourist.”

The University of Michigan’s acquisition of Kasdan’s archives not only enriches its existing collection but also serves as a testament to the profound impact of his work on the film industry. As the collection becomes available for research, it promises to inspire future generations of filmmakers and scholars alike.