Iron Maiden


Artist: Other
Format: UK Quad (30"x 40")
Condition: Excellent
Year: 1962

Description
The 1962 British comedy “The Iron Maiden” centred on the somewhat unlikely subject of traction engines. The traction engine featured in the film was a John Fowler & Co. 7nhp showman’s road locomotive. Built in 1920, she was used for heavy haulage work between quarries and harbours until she was converted into a showman’s engine undertaking fairground work. She was eventually bought for preservation in 1952, renamed “The Iron Maiden” following her appearance in the film and to this day makes regular appearances at various steam and locomotive fairs.

The film “Iron Maiden” was an attempt to replicate the success that 1953’s British comedies, “Genevieve” and “The Titfield Thunderbolt” had had with stories revolving around vintage cars and steam rollers respectively. Director Gerald Thomas and producer Peter Rogers would later find much success with their involvement in the British “Carry On…” series of comedy films, both contributing to 30 productions.

The film’s UK Quad poster features a charming and whimsical design that is keen to promote the two stars, Michael Craig and Anne Helm and, of course, the traction engine. Brimming with colour, the cartoon style illustrations work wonderfully well in conveying the easy-going and light-hearted nature of the film. Interesting is the significant difference between the two Quad posters released for the film. The Style ‘B’, shown below courtesy of  www.moviepostermem.com features the traction engine more prominently in more literal artwork. This second poster also seems to have been the work of a different artist.

This poster has been linen-backed.