did Hal Dresner write the original Cool Hand Luke?

Question

I have been told his name is in the credits of the movie-But when I look it up on line I get someone else.Thanks.

Answer 1

Donn Pearce is credited for the novel and the screenplay.

Answer 2

Donn Pearce wrote the novel, and Frank R. Pierson wrote the screenplay adaptation, possibly with some input from Pearce, who appeared in a small role in the film. The film is mainly faithful to the book, with some changes, so Pearce is the person most responsible for the story and characters, but Pierson s screenplay skillfully translated that to a different medium, which Pearce himself might not have been able to do.

I see no evidence Dresner was involved at all, and it wasn t really the kind of story he usually did.

Answer 3

Hal Dresner did an uncredited re-write. (See Daily Variety). He was denied credit because, at the time, no more than two writers were permitted screenwriting credit unless they were a writing team.

Answer 4

Hal had told me years ago that he was the location writer for CHL and had great stories to tell.

Answer 5

thanks so much for your reply-