Romy Routh

Written by Romy Routh

Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

34-facts-about-the-movie-five-graves-to-cairo
Source: Moviemeter.com

Five Graves to Cairo is a thrilling classic movie directed by the legendary filmmaker Billy Wilder. Released in 1943, this war-time drama captivated audiences with its gripping storyline, exceptional performances, and stunning cinematography. Set in the midst of World War II in North Africa, the film follows the journey of John Bramble, an English soldier who becomes stranded in an abandoned hotel in the Egyptian desert. As he seeks refuge, Bramble uncovers a secret Nazi plot brewing in the area. With its intriguing plot twists, suspenseful atmosphere, and memorable characters, Five Graves to Cairo has solidified its place in cinema history. In this article, we will delve into 34 fascinating facts about the movie, offering insights into its production, cast, and the impact it has had on the movie industry.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Five Graves to Cairo” is a gripping World War II movie with suspenseful twists, strong performances, and a realistic portrayal of the psychological toll of war.
  • The film’s success during wartime provided audiences with a much-needed escape and continues to be celebrated for its timeless storytelling and impact on the war film genre.
Table of Contents

The movie “Five Graves to Cairo” was released in 1943.

This World War II drama was directed by the renowned director Billy Wilder.

It is based on a play called “Hotel Imperial” written by Lajos Biró.

Biró also wrote the script for the film adaptation.

The movie stars Franchot Tone, Anne Baxter, and Erich von Stroheim in the lead roles.

Tone plays the character of Corporal John Bramble, Baxter plays the role of Mouche, and von Stroheim portrays Field Marshal Erwin Rommel.

Five Graves to Cairo was filmed during the height of World War II.

The production faced several challenges due to wartime restrictions.

The plot revolves around a British soldier who finds himself stranded in the Sahara Desert.

He stumbles upon a hotel that is occupied by German soldiers, posing as hotel staff.

The movie blends elements of war, mystery, and suspense.

It keeps the audience on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable twists and turns.

Five Graves to Cairo received critical acclaim upon its release.

The film was praised for its tight screenplay, stellar performances, and atmospheric cinematography.

The movie was a commercial success, grossing over $1 million at the box office.

It solidified Billy Wilder’s reputation as a talented director in Hollywood.

The film was nominated for three Academy Awards.

It received nominations for Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Film Editing.

Five Graves to Cairo showcases the complexities of war and the blurred lines between enemy and ally.

The characters navigate treacherous situations where trust becomes a matter of life and death.

The movie was shot entirely in black and white.

This decision adds to the film’s gritty wartime atmosphere and enhances the visual storytelling.

The film’s title refers to the five graves that are mentioned throughout the movie.

These graves hold the key to a significant secret that drives the plot forward.

Five Graves to Cairo was praised for its realistic depiction of war-torn settings.

The production design and set decorations added depth and authenticity to the film.

The movie incorporates real-life historical figures like Field Marshal Erwin Rommel.

It offers a fictionalized portrayal of Rommel’s interactions with the protagonist.

Five Graves to Cairo was one of the early examples of Billy Wilder’s exceptional storytelling skills.

It laid the foundation for his later acclaimed films such as “Sunset Boulevard” and “Some Like It Hot.”

The film’s screenplay includes dialogue in multiple languages, including English, French, and German.

This adds linguistic diversity and authenticity to the characters’ interactions.

The movie showcases the horrors of war, without shying away from the gruesome realities.

It serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict.

Five Graves to Cairo was praised for its strong and dynamic female character, Mouche.

Anne Baxter’s portrayal of Mouche garnered critical acclaim and added depth to the narrative.

The film’s soundtrack was composed by Miklós Rózsa.

The score accentuates the dramatic tension and heightens the emotional impact of the movie.

The movie’s cinematography captures the vastness and desolation of the Sahara Desert.

The wide shots of the desert landscape create a sense of isolation and hopelessness.

Five Graves to Cairo was one of the first Hollywood productions to explore the North African theater of World War II.

It shed light on a lesser-known aspect of the war and educated audiences about this significant historical period.

The film’s dialogue is known for its wit and sharpness.

Billy Wilder’s mastery of the screenplay shines through in the characters’ interactions and clever exchanges.

Five Graves to Cairo was inspired by real-life events and stories from the war.

It draws from the experiences of those who lived through the conflict.

The movie’s suspenseful moments are expertly crafted to keep the viewers engaged.

It keeps them guessing about the characters’ fates and the outcome of the story.

Five Graves to Cairo showcases the resilience and bravery of ordinary individuals caught in the midst of war.

The characters’ determination and resourcefulness in the face of adversity is a central theme of the movie.

The film’s tight pacing ensures that there is never a dull moment.

It maintains a gripping momentum throughout its runtime.

Five Graves to Cairo highlights the psychological toll of war on its characters.

It explores themes of guilt, fear, and survival instinct.

The movie’s climactic sequence is a thrilling and intense culmination of the narrative.

It keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats until the final moments.

Five Graves to Cairo has remained a classic in the war film genre.

Its impact and influence can still be seen in contemporary movies.

The movie’s success paved the way for Billy Wilder’s future collaborations with renowned actors and actresses.

It established him as a director who could tackle complex and compelling stories.

Five Graves to Cairo explores themes of identity and the different roles individuals assume during wartime.

The characters are constantly forced to navigate a web of deception and disguise.

The movie was released during a time when World War II was still ongoing.

It provided audiences with a sense of escapism while reflecting the reality of the war.

Five Graves to Cairo’s success at the box office helped boost morale during a difficult time in history.

It provided entertainment and an avenue for people to momentarily forget their troubles.

The movie continues to be celebrated for its timeless storytelling and strong performances.

It remains an enduring testament to the power of cinema to captivate and move audiences.

Conclusion

Five Graves to Cairo is a compelling World War II film directed by Billy Wilder. With its intriguing plot, stellar performances, and historical backdrop, it captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impression. The movie’s unique blend of suspense, drama, and romance takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the harsh realities of war.

Through this article, we have explored 34 fascinating facts about Five Graves to Cairo, shedding light on its production, cast, and impact on cinema. From its inspiration in a play to the challenges faced during filming, these insights provide a deeper understanding of the movie’s significance in the world of filmmaking.

As we delve into the trivia surrounding Five Graves to Cairo, we gain a greater appreciation for the dedication and artistry that went into creating this cinematic masterpiece. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and reminds us of the enduring impact that movies can have on our lives.

FAQs

1. What is the plot of Five Graves to Cairo?

The film follows the story of an English soldier who finds himself stranded in a desert hotel during World War II. He assumes the identity of a deceased spy and becomes embroiled in a dangerous espionage mission.

2. Who directed Five Graves to Cairo?

Five Graves to Cairo was directed by the legendary filmmaker, Billy Wilder.

3. When was Five Graves to Cairo released?

The movie was released in 1943.

4. Who are the main actors in Five Graves to Cairo?

The film stars Franchot Tone, Anne Baxter, and Akim Tamiroff in the lead roles.

5. Is Five Graves to Cairo based on a true story?

No, Five Graves to Cairo is a fictional story inspired by a play written by Lajos Biró.

6. Did the movie receive any awards or nominations?

Although the film was critically acclaimed, it did not receive any major awards or nominations.

7. What is the significance of the title, Five Graves to Cairo?

The title refers to the graves of six soldiers, five of whom are already filled. It symbolizes the constant presence of death during wartime.

8. What makes Five Graves to Cairo unique?

The film’s unique blend of genres, combining suspense, drama, and romance, sets it apart from other war films of its time.

9. Is Five Graves to Cairo available for streaming or purchase?

Yes, the movie is available for streaming and can also be purchased on DVD or Blu-ray.

10. Does Five Graves to Cairo have any notable behind-the-scenes trivia?

Yes, the film was Billy Wilder’s second directorial effort and showcased his talent for blending different genres, which became a trademark of his later works.

If you enjoyed learning about "Five Graves to Cairo," why not explore more fascinating facts about other classic films? Discover the captivating world of "All About Eve," where Anne Baxter's iconic performance shines. Immerse yourself in the gripping noir masterpiece "Double Indemnity," a testament to Billy Wilder's directorial genius. For history buffs, "The Desert Fox" offers a compelling look at the life of Erwin Rommel, one of World War II's most intriguing figures. Each of these articles promises a treasure trove of lesser-known details and behind-the-scenes insights that will deepen your appreciation for these cinematic gems.

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