The Production Guide
Martin Landau archives
Gene Schwam

This is a letter from Hollywood publicist Gene Schwam, of Hanson & Schwam, to the Landaus. dated 4th February 1974. See a previous letter dated 18th January 1974.

The Landaus were filming the third episode of Space 1999, while the first episode, Breakaway, was still being edited. Abe Mandell, head of ITC, the production company making Space: 1999, was in London (there are photos of him on the set). They were probably viewing the early cuts of Breakaway, and they were possibly already planning new sequences for that episode (to be filmed end of February).

Schwam writes about the possibility of a theatrical (cinema) release for the first episode. They are still waiting for the final edit. See Breakaway "theatrical version" analysis; note that Landau had written to his business manager Stan Bushell on 2nd February that definitively states the first episode would not be "movie length".

The focus is still clearly on selling the series to American networks. Perhaps because of the Breakaway refilming, it seems Mandell showed the networks "a rough cut sans music, colour correction", which did not impress (see September 1975 Variety entry).

February 4, 1974

Mr. and Mrs. Martin Landau
Flat 31, Maida Ave.
London, W.2., England

Dear Martin and Barbara:

I hope your energy level is holding up.

There have been some preliminary discussions about the possibility of going theatrical on the first "Space 1999" but nothing definite.

I think, when the film is put together, we will know more about the direction.

When Abe returns from London, we will discuss which film or films to show the network; also whether we will have it screened in New York or invite them to London.

With some additional prime time access being given back to the networks, this could be a very encouraging sign.

I trust all is well on the personal front. I have been in touch with Stanley and Peter regularly and everthing is under control.

Best regards,

GENE SCHWAM

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