John Mescall: Lived His Last Years in Obscurity

From American Cinematographer, A Gothic Masterpiece by Jan A. Henderson and George E. Turner (January 1998)

John Mescall, ASC:

Universal executives were concerned about Mescall's participation in the project because the cameraman was a chronic alcoholic. Apparently, his artistry did not suffer when he was drinking; the problem was getting him to and from work. During the 1940's he was often replaced after failing to report for duty, yet earned a Best Black-and-White Cinematography Academy Award Nomination in 1942 for Take a Letter, Darling. Although he made no secret of his addiction, Mescall had a distinguished career and was also a world-class golfer. He lived his last years in obscurity.