Written by Mandie Barrett
Modified & Updated: 10 Oct 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
The Desperate Hours, released in 1955, is a gripping crime drama that has become a true classic in the world of cinema. Directed by William Wyler and based on Joseph Hayes’ play of the same name, the film tells the intense story of a desperate criminal and his gang who hold a suburban family hostage in their own home.
With its suspenseful storyline, powerful performances, and masterful direction, The Desperate Hours has earned its place in film history. In this article, we will delve into 40 fascinating facts about this unforgettable movie. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to the film’s impact on popular culture, get ready for a deep dive into the world of The Desperate Hours.
Key Takeaways:
- “The Desperate Hours” is a classic film based on a real-life event, featuring intense performances and a gripping storyline that captivated audiences in 1955 and continues to resonate with viewers today.
- The movie explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the human spirit, showcasing the power of cinema to create suspenseful and thought-provoking experiences that stand the test of time.
The Desperate Hours is a 1955 film adaptation of a successful Broadway play.
The movie is based on Joseph Hayes’ play of the same name, which ran for over 500 performances on Broadway. It was directed by William Wyler and starred Humphrey Bogart and Fredric March.
The Desperate Hours was inspired by a real-life event.
Joseph Hayes wrote the play after reading about a family held hostage by three escaped convicts. The gripping story captivated audiences on stage and later on the silver screen.
Humphrey Bogart won an Academy Award for his performance in the film.
Bogart delivered a powerful and intense performance as Glenn Griffin, the leader of the escaped convicts. His portrayal earned him his only Academy Award win for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
The film was shot in black and white to enhance its dark and suspenseful atmosphere.
The decision to film in black and white was made to heighten the tension and create a more ominous mood. The stark contrasts and shadows added to the overall sense of desperation in the movie.
The Desperate Hours was a financial success for Paramount Pictures.
The film grossed over $6 million in its initial release, making it one of the top-grossing movies of Audiences were drawn to the intense storyline and stellar performances.
Fredric March was initially hesitant to take on the role of the family patriarch.
March was known for his portrayal of more heroic characters, and he was unsure about playing a vulnerable and conflicted father. However, he ultimately agreed and delivered a compelling performance.
The Desperate Hours was remade in 1990, starring Mickey Rourke and Anthony Hopkins.
The remake followed a similar storyline, but with a few modifications to reflect the contemporary setting. While not as critically acclaimed as the original, it still garnered attention for its intense performances.
The film’s screenplay was adapted by Joseph Hayes himself.
Having written the successful play, Hayes took on the task of adapting his own work for the big screen. His familiarity with the story and characters allowed him to translate the intense drama effectively.
The Desperate Hours was one of the first films to use a helicopter for aerial shots.
The production utilized a helicopter to capture dynamic shots of the countryside surrounding the house where the besieged family was held captive. This added a new level of visual storytelling to the film.
Several scenes were shot on location in Indiana.
The Desperate Hours is set in a small town in Indiana, and to capture the authentic atmosphere, some scenes were filmed on location. This added to the realism and immersion of the film.
The intense climax of the film was shot in one continuous take.
To create a sense of urgency and raw emotion, the climactic scene involving a showdown between the convicts and the police was filmed in one unbroken shot. The actors had to execute their performances flawlessly to maintain the tension.
The Desperate Hours was praised for its realistic portrayal of the psychological toll on the hostages.
The film delves deep into the emotional trauma experienced by those held captive. It explores the complexities of fear, desperation, and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
The movie’s tagline was “A Desperate, Deadly Battle of Wits!”
The tagline perfectly captures the high-stakes nature of the film and the constant mental and psychological warfare between the captors and the hostages.
The Desperate Hours received positive reviews from critics.
The film was lauded for its strong performances, gripping storyline, and atmospheric tension. Many praised the chemistry between Bogart and March, which added another layer to the dynamic of the film.
The Desperate Hours was a departure for director William Wyler.
Wyler was known for his work on classic films like “Ben-Hur” and “Roman Holiday,” which differed greatly in tone and genre from The Desperate Hours. His versatility as a director shone through in this suspenseful thriller.
The film explores themes of morality, familial bonds, and sacrifice.
The Desperate Hours delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by the hostages and examines the lengths they are willing to go to protect each other. It raises questions about the boundaries of right and wrong in extreme situations.
The Desperate Hours was highly influential on subsequent hostage thrillers.
The film’s gripping narrative and intense performances paved the way for future movies in the genre. Its impact can be seen in films like “Dog Day Afternoon” and “Die Hard,” which explore similar themes of hostages and their captors.
The Desperate Hours showcases the power dynamics between captors and hostages.
Throughout the film, the convicts exert control and manipulate their captives, while the hostages attempt to find ways to outsmart their captors. This power struggle adds to the tension and suspense of the story.
The film’s score was composed by Gail Kubik.
Kubik’s score beautifully enhances the mood and atmosphere of The Desperate Hours. It effectively builds tension and underscores the emotional turmoil experienced by the characters.
The Desperate Hours explores the concept of a home turning into a prison.
The family’s idyllic suburban house becomes a claustrophobic and threatening environment as the convicts invade their lives. The film highlights the vulnerability and fragility of the concept of home in the face of danger.
The Desperate Hours was filmed during the height of the Red Scare.
The film reflects the paranoia and mistrust of the era, as the convicts are portrayed as dangerous and manipulative individuals who threaten the American way of life. This added an extra layer of tension for contemporary audiences.
The Desperate Hours features a strong supporting cast, including Arthur Kennedy and Martha Scott.
Kennedy and Scott deliver memorable performances as the couple held hostage. Their portrayal of fear and resilience adds depth to the film’s exploration of the human condition under extreme circumstances.
The Desperate Hours was a departure for actor Humphrey Bogart.
Bogart, known for his roles in iconic films like “Casablanca” and “The Maltese Falcon,” took on a darker and more morally ambiguous character in The Desperate Hours. His performance showcased his range as an actor.
The film’s title refers to the limited time the hostages have to make desperate choices.
The Desperate Hours captures the urgency and critical moments faced by the characters, where split-second decisions can mean the difference between life and death.
The Desperate Hours was praised for its realistic portrayal of law enforcement tactics.
The film accurately depicts the response of the police force in a hostage situation, showcasing their strategic approach and dedication to resolving the crisis.
The movie’s set design emphasizes the contrast between the idyllic suburban home and the chaos within.
The production design team created a visually striking contrast between the pristine exterior of the house and the turmoil that unfolds within its walls. This contrast mirrors the facade that the family presents to the outside world.
The Desperate Hours was nominated for four Academy Awards.
In addition to Bogart’s win, the film received nominations for Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Adapted Screenplay, highlighting the exceptional talent involved in its creation.
The Desperate Hours explores the notion of empathy and understanding between captors and captives.
The film delves into the complexities of human behavior, suggesting that empathy and connection can be found even in the most desperate circumstances.
The Desperate Hours is a suspenseful and gripping thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats throughout.
With its tense atmosphere, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes, The Desperate Hours remains a captivating film that stands the test of time.
The Desperate Hours showcases the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Despite the dire circumstances they face, the family at the center of the film refuses to be broken. Their determination to survive serves as a testament to the indomitable nature of the human spirit.
The Desperate Hours was praised for its realistic portrayal of the psychological effects of the hostage situation.
The film explores the trauma and distress experienced by the hostages, delving into their fears, doubts, and inner struggles. This adds depth and complexity to the characters.
The Desperate Hours was a critical and commercial success upon its release.
The film received positive reviews for its gripping storyline, exceptional performances, and tense atmosphere. Audiences were captivated by its thrilling narrative and the emotional journey of its characters.
The Desperate Hours remains a significant entry in Humphrey Bogart’s filmography.
While Bogart is best known for his iconic roles in classic films, The Desperate Hours demonstrates his versatility as an actor and his ability to portray morally complex characters.
The Desperate Hours was included in the National Film Registry in 2009.
The film’s inclusion in the prestigious National Film Registry recognizes its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. It stands as a testament to its lasting impact on cinema.
The Desperate Hours highlights the sacrifices individuals are willing to make for their loved ones.
The film explores the lengths a family would go to protect one another and the sacrifices they make to stay united in the face of danger.
The Desperate Hours incorporates elements of film noir and psychological thriller genres.
The movie combines the dark and atmospheric qualities of film noir with the psychological tension and suspense of a thriller, creating a unique and compelling viewing experience.
The Desperate Hours features high-stakes negotiations between the convicts and the authorities.
The film showcases the intricate dance between the criminal mastermind and the police, with each side trying to outsmart the other in a battle of wits.
The Desperate Hours explores the theme of the erosion of the American dream.
The film challenges the notion of a safe and secure suburban life, showing how easily it can be shattered by outside forces. It brings to light the vulnerability that lies beneath the surface of the American dream.
The Desperate Hours expertly builds suspense through its pacing and editing.
The film strategically controls the release of information and ramps up the tension with each passing minute. The audience is kept on the edge of their seats, eager to know what will happen next.
The Desperate Hours serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to captivate and engage audiences.
Decades since its release, the film continues to resonate with viewers, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking experience that showcases the artistry and impact of the medium.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Desperate Hours is a captivating movie that has left a lasting impact on both audiences and critics alike. With its thrilling plot, talented cast, and powerful performances, it has earned its place among the best films in the suspense genre. From the brilliant direction to the intense action sequences, every aspect of the movie is carefully crafted to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Whether you are a fan of crime dramas or simply enjoy a good thriller, The Desperate Hours is definitely a film worth watching.
FAQs
Q: Who directed The Desperate Hours?
A: The Desperate Hours was directed by Michael Cimino.
Q: When was The Desperate Hours released?
A: The movie was released on October 5, 1990.
Q: Who starred in The Desperate Hours?
A: The film featured an impressive cast including Mickey Rourke, Anthony Hopkins, and Mimi Rogers.
Q: Is The Desperate Hours based on a true story?
A: No, The Desperate Hours is not based on a true story. It is a fictional crime drama.
Q: What is the plot of The Desperate Hours?
A: The movie follows the story of a group of escaped convicts who invade a suburban household and hold the family hostage, leading to a tense battle of wits and survival.
Q: What is the genre of The Desperate Hours?
A: The Desperate Hours falls under the genre of crime thriller.
Q: What did the critics think of The Desperate Hours?
A: The film received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for the performances but criticism for some of the plot elements.
Q: Is The Desperate Hours available for streaming?
A: The availability of The Desperate Hours for streaming may vary depending on your location and streaming service.
Q: Did The Desperate Hours win any awards?
A: The film did not win any major awards but was nominated for a Saturn Award for Best Action/Adventure/Thriller Film.
Q: Where can I watch The Desperate Hours?
A: You can check popular online platforms such as Amazon Prime, Netflix, or Hulu for the availability of The Desperate Hours.
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