A unique piece of cinematic history, a script for James Cameron's 1997 epic 'Titanic' signed by its principal cast, has been sold at auction for £620. The screenplay, bearing the autographs of stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, along with other key figures from the production, went under the hammer at Clevedon Salerooms in North Somerset on 11 June 2024.
The script was part of a single-vendor collection that had been amassed over many years, offering a rare opportunity for film enthusiasts. Beyond DiCaprio, who played Jack Dawson, and Winslet, who portrayed Rose DeWitt Bukater, the document also features signatures from Billy Zane (Cal Hockley), Kathy Bates (Molly Brown), and Gloria Stuart (Old Rose), as well as director James Cameron.
Henry Michallat, a valuer and auctioneer at Clevedon Salerooms, highlighted the appeal of such an item, stating that the handwritten signatures provided one fan with 'a physical connection to one of the greatest films ever made'. He noted that scripts, particularly those with multiple key autographs, do not frequently appear at auction, unlike other 'Titanic' memorabilia which often commands much higher prices.
'Titanic' remains one of the most significant films in cinematic history, depicting the tragic love story between Jack and Rose aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic during its maiden voyage in 1912. The film was a groundbreaking commercial success, becoming the first movie to surpass $1 billion at the global box office. It ultimately grossed over $2.2 billion worldwide and held the title of the highest-grossing film of all time for 12 years until it was surpassed by Cameron's subsequent film, 'Avatar', in 2009.
The enduring popularity of 'Titanic' in the UK and globally is reflected in its continued availability across various platforms. UK audiences can currently stream 'Titanic' on Disney+. The film's critical acclaim was also recognised with numerous accolades, including 11 Academy Awards, tying with 'Ben-Hur' and 'The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King' for the most Oscars won by a single film. Its cultural impact and the performances of its British star, Kate Winslet, have cemented its place in film history.
The signed script was accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Starpower Autographs, assuring the buyer of the genuineness of the signatures. Michallat observed that three bidders were particularly keen on acquiring the item, leading to a competitive but ultimately accessible price for a dedicated fan.