A piece of history is up for grabs.
Listed by Nate D. Sanders Auctions, bidders have the chance to purchase an original Above The Rim script, signed by Tupac Shakur. According to the posting, the late rapper signed the front cover “2 PAC’ in black ballpoint. Additionally, the rest of the cast’s autographs are featured on the relic.
The signatures are said to have been obtained by actor David Bailey, who played coach Mike Rollins in the film. Described as “Very good plus condition” the script measures 8.5” x 11” with different colored pages within, representing different drafts. It is accompanied by a candid photograph taken during filming. It also includes a letter of authenticity from David Bailey’s son.
$2,500 is set as the minimum bid, with the auction ending on Thursday (Nov. 21).
In the 1994 classic, Shakur starred as the character Birdie Sheppard. Also starring Duane Martin, Tonya Pinkins, Marlon Wayans, and Leon, Above The Rim was co-written and directed by Jeff Pollack in his directorial debut, with a screenplay written by Barry Michael Cooper, adapted from a story by Benny Medina.
“I think when the movie first came out, it was more about this streetball movie where people are real ballplayers,” Leon detailed to The Athletic earlier this year, recognizing the film’s 30th anniversary.
“But I think over the years, what they’ve realized is that the movie was much deeper than that, and the relationships were parallel. I think the appreciation not just of the movie, but for my role in particular, grew over the years into what (Shep) might have been going through.”
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