The Fugitive Eye screening

On Friday the 8th of November, the JMCCCP co-hosted a film screening of The Fugitive Eye with the State Library of South Australia, presented by JMCCCP student member Jane Costessi.

The Fugitive Eye is a thrilling 1961 telemovie starring Charlton Heston, which was based on a 1953 novel by Adelaide’s own ‘Charlotte Jay’ (aka Geraldine Halls).

Jane, who is researching the life and work of Geraldine Halls, gave a fascinating talk introducing the film, and explained the story behind the making of the film, including Geraldine’s relationship to the film and the differences between the original story and the Hollywood adaptation. Having located the film in the U.S. Library of Congress, Jane worked in consultation with the State Library of South Australia to acquire the item for their collection. Following this year-long process, it was a real treat to see The Fugitive Eye on the big screen.

The public screening was booked out, with several of Geraldine Halls' relatives in attendance. Special thanks to Claire Wald, Patrick Bugeja and Rachel Small from the State Library of South Australia, as well as Lizzie Bruce from The Caterers Adelaide for their amazing work in supporting this special event.

We are very grateful to Jane Costessi for organising this screening, and for sharing her fascinating insights into the author and history of the film with us.