Arleen Rabinowitz

Written by Arleen Rabinowitz

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

37-facts-about-the-movie-days-of-heaven
Source: Mubi.com

Days of Heaven is an iconic film that forever etched its name in the annals of cinematic history. Directed by the legendary Terrence Malick and released in 1978, this mesmerizing tale takes viewers on a journey through the vast landscapes of America’s heartland during the early 20th century. Days of Heaven is renowned for its hauntingly beautiful visuals, poetic storytelling, and evocative performances. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Days of Heaven and explore 37 intriguing facts about the movie. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to production challenges, hidden references, and the film’s profound impact on the industry, we will uncover the untold stories and secrets that make Days of Heaven an enduring masterpiece. So, sit back, relax, and let’s embark on a captivating exploration of one of the greatest films in cinematic history – Days of Heaven.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Days of Heaven” is a visually stunning movie that won the Palme d’Or and continues to inspire filmmakers with its timeless storytelling and captivating cinematography.
  • The film’s poetic narrative, naturalistic acting, and haunting soundtrack make it a cinematic masterpiece that explores love, betrayal, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
Table of Contents

Days of Heaven was released in 1978.

Directed by Terrence Malick, this timeless classic depicts a beautiful love triangle set against the backdrop of the American wheat fields.

The movie stars Richard Gere, Brooke Adams, and Sam Shepard.

Richard Gere delivers a mesmerizing performance as Bill, a young laborer who finds himself caught in a complicated love affair.

Days of Heaven won the Palme d’Or at the 1979 Cannes Film Festival.

With its stunning visuals and poetic storytelling, the film captivated critics and audiences alike, earning the prestigious Palme d’Or.

Emmanuel Lubezki’s cinematography is a standout feature of the film.

Lubezki’s masterful use of natural light and wide-angle lenses creates a dreamlike atmosphere, immersing the audience in the vastness of the prairie.

The movie was filmed during the “golden hour”.

Terrence Malick insisted on shooting many scenes during the magic hours of sunrise and sunset, giving the film its signature golden glow.

The original score was composed by Ennio Morricone.

Morricone’s hauntingly beautiful music perfectly complements the ethereal visuals, evoking a sense of melancholy and longing.

The story is narrated by Linda, Bill’s younger sister.

Linda’s innocent and observant perspective adds depth to the narrative, providing insights into the characters’ motivations and emotions.

The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

Days of Heaven delves into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of greed and deception.

The movie showcases the struggles of migrant workers in early 20th century America.

Terrence Malick sheds light on the harsh realities faced by those seeking a better life during a time of economic turmoil.

Days of Heaven was nominated for four Academy Awards.

The film received nominations for Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Sound, and Best Supporting Actress for Linda Manz’s exceptional performance as Linda.

The film’s title is inspired by a biblical passage.

The title is derived from a line in the book of Psalms: “In the morning it flourishes and grows up; in the evening it is cut down and withers.”

Days of Heaven has been praised for its timeless and poetic storytelling.

The film’s narrative style, coupled with its stunning visuals, has cemented its status as a cinematic masterpiece.

The movie was critically acclaimed upon its release.

Days of Heaven received rave reviews for its artistic merit, innovative cinematography, and compelling performances.

The film was selected for preservation by the National Film Registry.

In 2007, Days of Heaven was deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry.

The movie inspired many filmmakers and cinematographers.

Days of Heaven’s visual style and storytelling techniques have influenced numerous filmmakers and continue to resonate in contemporary cinema.

The film’s production faced numerous challenges.

Terrence Malick’s meticulous attention to detail and insistence on capturing natural light posed logistical challenges for the crew.

Days of Heaven showcases the beauty of the American landscape.

The film’s breathtaking shots of the wheat fields and the vast prairies celebrate the grandeur of nature.

The movie features minimal dialogue.

Terrence Malick’s minimalist approach allows the visuals and the music to convey the story, creating a deeply immersive experience.

Days of Heaven was a box office success.

Despite its artistic nature, the film resonated with audiences and enjoyed financial success during its theatrical run.

Days of Heaven has a timeless quality.

The film’s universal themes and hauntingly beautiful imagery continue to captivate audiences, making it relevant even decades after its initial release.

The movie was primarily shot in Canada.

Due to its resemblance to the American prairies, much of the film was shot in Alberta, Canada.

Days of Heaven marked Terrence Malick’s second directorial effort.

After a 5-year hiatus, Malick returned to filmmaking with this visually stunning masterpiece.

The film received praise for its attention to historical accuracy.

Days of Heaven captures the essence of early 20th century America, from the clothing to the farming techniques.

Days of Heaven is often considered a visual poem.

Terrence Malick’s unique storytelling approach transforms the film into a lyrical and transcendent experience.

The movie’s production took over a year to complete.

Due to the extensive planning and meticulous attention to detail, Days of Heaven had a lengthy production period.

The film’s narrative is told through a series of vignettes.

Days of Heaven unfolds in a fragmented and nonlinear manner, adding to the film’s dreamlike quality.

The dialogue in the film was often improvised.

Terrence Malick encouraged a collaborative approach, allowing the actors to bring their own insights and interpretations to their characters.

The movie’s costume design reflects the time period.

The exquisite costumes in Days of Heaven accurately depict the fashion trends of the early 20th century.

Days of Heaven received praise for its naturalistic acting.

The performances in the film are subtle and authentic, adding to the overall realism of the story.

The film’s final sequence is considered one of the most visually striking in cinema history.

The climactic scene, set against a backdrop of locusts and fire, is a breathtaking culmination of the film’s themes and imagery.

Days of Heaven features a standout performance by Linda Manz.

Manz’s portrayal of Linda, with her unique blend of innocence and wisdom, remains one of the film’s most memorable aspects.

The movie’s screenplay was written by Terrence Malick.

Malick’s poetic and introspective writing style shines through in every line of dialogue and narration.

Days of Heaven’s soundtrack complements the visuals perfectly.

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Ennio Morricone, enhances the emotional impact of each scene, creating a powerful cinematic experience.

Days of Heaven explores the contrast between the natural world and human desires.

The film delves into the tension between the purity of nature and the complex emotions and motivations of its characters.

The film’s editing was a challenging process.

Terrence Malick and his team carefully crafted the film’s editing to create a seamless flow and maintain its ethereal atmosphere.

Days of Heaven is considered one of Terrence Malick’s greatest works.

The film exemplifies Malick’s unique artistic vision and established him as a visionary filmmaker.

Days of Heaven continues to inspire and captivate new generations of cinephiles.

Its enduring legacy speaks to the power and beauty of cinema as an art form.

Conclusion

Days of Heaven is a mesmerizing movie that continues to captivate audiences with its stunning cinematography, nuanced performances, and compelling storytelling. With its rich narrative and beautiful visuals, it remains a timeless piece of cinematic art. Whether you’re a fan of period dramas, romantic films, or simply appreciate the work of director Terrence Malick, Days of Heaven is a must-watch.

From the breathtaking Texas landscapes to the complex characters, this film transports viewers to a world that is as haunting as it is enchanting. The poetic dialogue and evocative score add another layer of depth to the viewing experience, making it a true cinematic masterpiece.

Whether you’ve seen Days of Heaven before or are discovering it for the first time, this movie is sure to leave a lasting impression and spark discussions about love, loyalty, and the human condition.

FAQs

Q: Who directed Days of Heaven?

A: Days of Heaven was directed by Terrence Malick, who is known for his distinctive visual style and philosophical themes.

Q: When was Days of Heaven released?

A: Days of Heaven was released in 1978.

Q: What is the plot of Days of Heaven?

A: The movie follows a young couple, Bill and Abby, who are on the run from the law. They find work on a wealthy farmer’s land and become entangled in a complicated love triangle.

Q: Who are the main actors in Days of Heaven?

A: The main cast of Days of Heaven includes Richard Gere, Brooke Adams, and Sam Shepard.

Q: Was Days of Heaven critically acclaimed?

A: Yes, Days of Heaven received widespread critical acclaim for its cinematography, storytelling, and performances. It was nominated for several Academy Awards and has since become a cult classic.

Q: Can you watch Days of Heaven online?

A: Days of Heaven is available for streaming on various platforms, such as Amazon Prime and Netflix. It is also available for purchase or rental on major digital platforms.

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