The Fan is a tense 1977 thriller by Bob Randall written in an unusual epistolary form, a series of personal letters. It was made into a film starring Lauren Bacall, Maureen Stapleton and Michael Biehn in 1981, but due to an overload of slasher films of the time, it was deemed a bomb and Bacall criticized for appearing in perceived trash. Over the years it has proven to be a film of substance, which Bacall says held her best work.
Sally Ross is a glamorous movie star rehearsing for a Broadway show, and over the next six months, receives stacks of mail - agents with new projects, her ex-husband she remains friendly with, and fans asking for signed photographs.
Douglas Breen is one complimentary fan. His letters requesting a photo soon turn sharp when it is not received. He has lots of career ideas for her, and his friendly tone turns demanding when she doesn't respond. Perhaps it is the fault of her secretary Belle? She may not be giving the mail promptly to Sally. Perhaps she needs a sharp talking to. The letters begin to turn nasty and Belle is attacked with a knife one night in the subway.
My darling. My star. My mate.
Soon he is planning a weekend away for them and expects Sally to attend. The police are called in and bodyguards hired.
My body hardens at the thought of you my love.
As the opening night arrives, Sally's emotional tension is at a peak, fearing her stalker will be in the theatre - and she is right!
I was surprised how intense this thriller became, merely through short letters - this could be updated easily using emails, and probably has. A great premise, with a satisfying and unforgettable ending! - which, of course, they changed for the film. The characters personalities come through well, and reading personal letters quickly becomes engaging. A dynamite read I would include with Looking For Mr. Goodbar by Judith Rossner, The Stepford Wives by Ira Levin and The Parallax View by Loren Singer for enjoyable 1970's thrillers.
1977 / Hardcover / 243 pages
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