Written by Bonnie Roller
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Calling all movie buffs and lovers of classic cinema! Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of “They Drive By Night,” a timeless film that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1940, this noir drama directed by Raoul Walsh stars Humphrey Bogart, George Raft, and Ann Sheridan. Set in the gritty trucking industry, the film takes viewers on a thrilling journey filled with suspense, romance, and tragedy.
In this article, we will explore 36 intriguing facts about “They Drive By Night,” shedding light on the behind-the-scenes stories, notable performances, and the film’s lasting impact on the industry. So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and get ready to uncover the secrets and trivia surrounding this cinematic gem.
Key Takeaways:
- “They Drive By Night” is a classic film noir from 1940, showcasing the struggles of truck drivers and the darker side of human nature. It influenced future film noirs and continues to resonate with audiences today.
- This crime drama delves into the complexities of sibling relationships, the sacrifices made for success, and the consequences of unethical choices. With memorable dialogue and intense chase sequences, it remains influential in cinema.
The movie They Drive By Night was released in 1940.
They Drive By Night is a classic film noir released in It was directed by Raoul Walsh and stars George Raft, Ann Sheridan, Ida Lupino, and Humphrey Bogart.
The movie is based on a novel.
The story of They Drive By Night is based on the novel “Long Haul” by A. I. Bezzerides.
It is a crime drama film.
They Drive By Night falls under the genre of crime drama. It revolves around two truck-driving brothers who get involved in a dangerous rivalry.
The movie showcases the dark side of the trucking industry.
They Drive By Night explores the harsh realities of the trucking industry, including the long hours, dangerous conditions, and cutthroat competition.
The film has a memorable tagline.
The tagline for They Drive By Night is “They smashed 10,000 tons a day, now let them put you behind the 8-ball!” This catchy tagline perfectly captures the intensity of the movie.
It features Humphrey Bogart in a supporting role.
Humphrey Bogart, known for his iconic roles in film noirs, appears in They Drive By Night in a supporting role as a trucker named Paul Fabrini.
The movie showcases the struggles of the Great Depression era.
Set during the Great Depression, They Drive By Night portrays the economic hardships of the era and the desperation of individuals trying to make a living.
The film was well-received by critics.
They Drive By Night received positive reviews from critics, who praised its gritty atmosphere, strong performances, and engaging storyline.
It was a box office success.
The movie performed well at the box office and became a commercial success, solidifying its status as a classic film noir.
The film was remade in 1946.
They Drive By Night was remade in 1946 under the title “Highway 301,” featuring Steve Cochran and Virginia Grey in the lead roles.
It was ahead of its time in depicting the trucking industry.
They Drive By Night was groundbreaking in its depiction of the trucking industry, shedding light on the dangers and challenges faced by truck drivers.
The movie portrays the bond between siblings.
The relationship between the two brothers, played by George Raft and Humphrey Bogart, is a central theme in They Drive By Night. It showcases the loyalty and sacrifices they make for each other.
It was nominated for an Academy Award.
They Drive By Night received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Story, further recognizing its impact and storytelling prowess.
The film highlights the dangers of sleep deprivation.
They Drive By Night emphasizes the risks posed by sleep deprivation for truck drivers and its potential impact on their safety and decision-making abilities.
It features intense and suspenseful chase sequences.
The movie is known for its thrilling chase sequences, adding to the overall suspense and excitement of the film.
The movie’s title has a double meaning.
The title “They Drive By Night” not only refers to the truck drivers working long hours but also symbolizes the characters’ constant pursuit of their dreams and aspirations.
It showcases the darker side of human nature.
They Drive By Night delves into the darker side of human nature, exploring themes of greed, betrayal, and desperation.
The film has a memorable score.
They Drive By Night features a haunting and atmospheric score that enhances the tension and mood of the movie.
It influenced future film noirs.
They Drive By Night left a lasting impact on the film noir genre, influencing future movies in terms of its storytelling style and atmosphere.
The movie explores the sacrifices made for success.
They Drive By Night examines the sacrifices individuals are willing to make in their pursuit of success, often at the expense of their personal relationships.
It showcases the resilience of the characters.
Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, the characters in They Drive By Night display remarkable resilience in their quest for a better life.
The film has memorable dialogue.
They Drive By Night features memorable and quotable dialogue that adds depth and authenticity to the characters and their interactions.
It captures the essence of film noir.
They Drive By Night embodies the quintessential elements of film noir, including its atmospheric lighting, morally ambiguous characters, and a sense of impending doom.
The movie was ahead of its time in showcasing female empowerment.
They Drive By Night includes strong and empowered female characters, such as Ida Lupino’s character, who challenges traditional gender roles.
It explores the consequences of making unethical choices.
The film delves into the repercussions of the characters’ unethical actions, highlighting the price they pay for their choices.
The movie received a restoration in recent years.
They Drive By Night underwent a restoration process to preserve its cinematic quality and ensure its longevity for future audiences.
It was a critical success upon its release.
They Drive By Night was well-received by both critics and audiences, solidifying its reputation as a classic film in the noir genre.
The film has a cult following.
Over the years, They Drive By Night has gained a dedicated cult following, with fans appreciating its gritty atmosphere and compelling storytelling.
It highlights the dangers of driving while fatigued.
They Drive By Night serves as a cautionary tale about the risks associated with driving long hours without proper rest, addressing an ongoing issue in the trucking industry.
The movie’s cinematography is visually captivating.
The cinematography in They Drive By Night is visually stunning, with creative use of shadows and lighting to enhance the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.
It explores the complexities of sibling relationships.
The dynamic between the two brothers in They Drive By Night depicts the complexities of sibling relationships, showcasing both love and rivalry.
The film has a timeless appeal.
Despite being released over 80 years ago, They Drive By Night continues to resonate with audiences today, speaking to universal themes and human struggles.
It was groundbreaking in its portrayal of the working class.
They Drive By Night was ahead of its time in depicting the struggles and aspirations of the working class, paving the way for future films exploring similar themes.
The movie’s screenplay was praised for its realism.
The screenplay of They Drive By Night was commended for its realistic portrayal of the trucking industry and the challenges faced by its workers.
It captures the essence of the film noir era.
They Drive By Night epitomizes the atmosphere and style of the film noir era, with its gritty visuals and morally ambiguous characters.
The film remains influential in cinema.
They Drive By Night continues to be studied and revered in film schools and is often referenced as a seminal work in the film noir genre.
Conclusion
They Drive By Night is a classic film that seamlessly blends elements of drama, romance, and suspense. With a stellar cast and a gripping storyline, it has earned its place in cinema history. From its standout performances to its iconic scenes, this movie continues to captivate audiences even decades after its release.
Whether you’re a fan of film noir or just looking for an engaging and thrilling movie to watch, They Drive By Night is a must-see. Its exploration of the human psyche, along with its well-paced plot and intriguing characters, make it a timeless masterpiece. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to be immersed in the thrilling world of They Drive By Night.
FAQs
Q: Who directed They Drive By Night?
A: They Drive By Night was directed by Raoul Walsh, a prominent filmmaker of the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Q: When was They Drive By Night released?
A: The film was released on July 27, 1940.
Q: Who are the main actors in They Drive By Night?
A: They Drive By Night features a talented ensemble cast including Humphrey Bogart, George Raft, Ann Sheridan, and Ida Lupino.
Q: What is the plot of They Drive By Night?
A: The movie follows the lives of two truck-driving brothers who struggle to make a living while facing various challenges and dangers on the road.
Q: Is They Drive By Night a film noir?
A: Yes, They Drive By Night is considered as one of the early examples of film noir due to its dark and suspenseful elements.
Q: Is They Drive By Night based on a true story?
A: No, They Drive By Night is a fictional story, but it was inspired by a novel called “Long Haul” written by A.I. Bezzerides.
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