43 Facts About The Movie Detour

Detour was released by PRC Pictures

PRC Pictures, also known as Producers Releasing Corporation, was a low-budget film production and distribution company that released Detour. Despite its limited resources, PRC managed to create a gripping and memorable film.

The movie has a runtime of just 69 minutes

Detour is a compact movie with a runtime of only 69 minutes. Its concise storytelling keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the entire film.

The screenplay was written by Martin Goldsmith

Martin Goldsmith, the author of the original novel on which Detour is based, also penned the screenplay for the film. His adaptation successfully captures the suspense and tension of the story.

Detour is shot in a film noir style

The movie Detour adheres to the classic film noir style, characterized by dark visuals, morally ambiguous characters, and a gritty atmosphere. It beautifully captures the essence of the genre.

The film was made on a shoestring budget

Due to the limited budget, Detour was shot quickly and efficiently, but this constraint did not impact the quality of the film. The resourcefulness of the filmmakers is evident in every frame.

The protagonist is an out-of-work pianist

Tom Neal portrays Al Roberts, a talented pianist struggling to find work. His character undergoes a series of unfortunate events that lead him down a dark and treacherous path.

Ann Savage plays the femme fatale character

Ann Savage delivers a memorable performance as Vera, the femme fatale who tempts and manipulates the protagonist. Her portrayal adds an extra layer of complexity to the storyline.

Detour is known for its voiceover narration

The film utilizes voiceover narration to provide insights into the protagonist’s inner thoughts and emotions. This technique adds depth to the storytelling and enhances the noir atmosphere.

It features a haunting musical score

The haunting musical score in Detour perfectly complements the eerie visuals and intensifies the suspense. The music enhances the overall impact of the story and stays with the audience long after the film ends.

The movie was shot in just six days

Detour was filmed in an incredibly short timeframe of only six days. The filmmakers worked efficiently to capture the essence of the story within this tight schedule.

The movie’s narrative is nonlinear

Detour employs a nonlinear narrative structure, using flashbacks to reveal the protagonist’s backstory and motivations. This nontraditional approach adds to the intrigue and keeps the audience engaged.

Detour is known for its gritty depiction of life on the road

The film portrays the harsh realities of life on the road, highlighting the dangers and desperation faced by hitchhikers and transient individuals during this era. It offers a raw and unflinching look at the darker side of society.

The movie was not initially a commercial success

Upon its release, Detour did not achieve significant commercial success. However, over time, the film gained recognition as a cult classic and is now celebrated for its contribution to the film noir genre.

Detour has since been recognized as a film gem

Despite its initial lackluster reception, Detour has since been acknowledged as a gem of film noir and is often included in lists of the greatest movies ever made.

The film inspired other filmmakers and artists

Detour’s innovative storytelling and atmospheric visuals have inspired countless filmmakers and artists over the years. Its impact on the noir genre can still be felt today.

Detour has a strong cult following

Over time, Detour has developed a dedicated cult following of fans who appreciate its unique atmosphere and gripping narrative. The film continues to gain new admirers even after several decades.

The movie explores themes of fate and morality

Detour delves into themes of fate, morality, and the consequences of our choices. It raises thought-provoking questions about the human condition and leaves viewers contemplating long after the credits roll.

Detour is often ranked among the best film noirs

Critics and film enthusiasts frequently include Detour in their lists of the greatest film noirs ever made. Its impact and enduring popularity have solidified its place in cinema history.

The film’s dialogue is sharp and memorable

The dialogue in Detour is renowned for its sharp wit and memorable exchanges. The characters’ words have become iconic within the film noir genre.

Detour was released during World War II

The release of Detour coincided with the final years of World War II. The film provided audiences with a dark escape from the harsh realities of the time.

The movie is filled with suspenseful plot twists

Detour keeps viewers guessing with its unexpected plot twists and turns. Each twist adds another layer of suspense and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

Detour was featured in the Criterion Collection

The prestigious Criterion Collection recognized the significance of Detour and included it in their curated selection of influential films from around the world. This further solidified the film’s status as a cinematic masterpiece.

The movie examines the consequences of desperate choices

Detour explores the repercussions of desperate choices made by its characters. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the potential consequences of our own actions.

The film’s cinematography is striking

Detour’s cinematography is visually striking, showcasing the contrast between light and shadow. The black-and-white visuals add to the film’s noir ambiance and intensify its dramatic impact.

Detour has influenced contemporary neo-noir films

Detour’s influence extends beyond its own era and has paved the way for contemporary neo-noir films. Its unique style and narrative structure continue to inspire filmmakers today.

The movie was restored in 2015

In 2015, a restoration of Detour was undertaken to preserve and enhance the film’s visual quality. This restoration ensures that future generations can experience the film in all its glory.

Detour features memorable and complex characters

From Al Roberts to Vera, Detour is filled with memorable and complex characters that captivate the audience. Their motivations and interactions serve as the driving force behind the film’s intense storyline.

The film explores a morally ambiguous world

Detour presents a morally ambiguous world where right and wrong are not always clear-cut. It challenges traditional notions of morality and offers a gritty portrayal of human nature.

Detour is known for its dark and pessimistic tone

The movie’s dark and pessimistic tone is a hallmark of film noir. It immerses viewers in a gloomy and morally uncertain world, showcasing the darker aspects of society.

Detour’s title reflects the twists and turns of the plot

The title Detour is fitting for the film, as it mirrors the unexpected detours that the protagonist’s life takes throughout the story. It symbolizes the uncertainty and unpredictability of life itself.

The movie utilizes minimal sets

Due to budget constraints, Detour relies on minimal sets to create its atmospheric world. This stripped-down approach adds to the realism and allows the audience to focus on the characters and their journey.

Detour’s iconic poster has become a collector’s item

The movie’s original poster, featuring a striking image of the characters and the tagline, has become a sought-after collector’s item for film enthusiasts and noir aficionados.

The film explores the concept of duality

Detour delves into the concept of duality, showcasing the contrasting aspects of its characters’ personalities and the choices they make. It highlights the complexities inherent in human nature.

Detour’s low budget adds to its raw and gritty charm

Despite its low budget, Detour’s raw and gritty charm has contributed to its enduring appeal. The film’s resourceful production values create a unique atmosphere that resonates with audiences.

The movie’s twist ending is unforgettable

Detour’s twist ending leaves a lasting impact on viewers. It subverts expectations and keeps audiences reflecting on the events long after the final scene fades to black.

Detour was not recognized at the Academy Awards

Despite its critical acclaim, Detour did not receive any Academy Award nominations. However, the film’s legacy has transcended awards and continues to be celebrated by film enthusiasts worldwide.

The film was shot primarily in Los Angeles

Detour’s primary filming location was Los Angeles, capturing the essence of the city’s darker side. The urban landscape serves as a backdrop for the protagonist’s treacherous journey.

Detour has inspired various homages and references

Detour’s influence can be seen in various homages and references in other films and TV shows. Its impact on pop culture is a testament to its enduring legacy.

The movie was named to the National Film Registry

In 1992, Detour was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. This honor recognizes its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

The film was a critical success

Though Detour had a modest commercial reception, it was well-received by critics who praised its unique storytelling and atmospheric visuals. Its critical success has cemented its reputation as a classic film noir.

Detour showcases the power of a compelling screenplay

The strength of Detour lies in its compelling screenplay, which keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. It serves as a testament to the power of strong writing in creating a captivating film.

The film explores themes of identity and self-destruction

Detour delves into themes of identity and self-destruction, as the protagonist’s choices end up spiraling him further down a path of darkness. It explores the consequences of one’s actions on their own identity.

Detour remains a timeless classic

Decades after its release, Detour continues to be regarded as a timeless classic of the film noir genre. Its gripping narrative, memorable characters, and atmospheric style ensure its place in cinematic history.

Conclusion

Detour is a classic film that has captivated audiences for decades with its engaging storyline, stellar performances, and unique cinematography. The movie delves into the dark and mysterious world of film noir, taking viewers on a thrilling journey filled with twists and turns.

With its brilliant direction by Edgar G. Ulmer and a standout performance by Tom Neal, Detour has earned its place as a true gem in the history of cinema. The film’s clever plot, atmospheric settings, and memorable characters make it a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

Whether you’re a devoted cinephile or just looking for an entertaining movie night, Detour is sure to leave a lasting impression. Its gripping narrative and expert craftsmanship have solidified its status as a cinematic masterpiece, deserving of its place in film history.

FAQs

Q: Who directed the movie Detour?

A: Detour was directed by Edgar G. Ulmer.

Q: What genre does Detour belong to?

A: Detour falls into the category of film noir, known for its dark and mysterious atmosphere.

Q: When was Detour released?

A: Detour was released in 1945.

Q: Who are the main actors in Detour?

A: Tom Neal and Ann Savage are the main actors in Detour.

Q: Can you provide a brief summary of Detour’s storyline?

A: Detour follows the story of Al Roberts, a down-on-his-luck musician, who hitchhikes his way to Los Angeles to reunite with his girlfriend. Along the way, he encounters a mysterious femme fatale and finds himself entangled in a series of unfortunate events that push him to the edge.

Q: Is Detour a black and white film?

A: Yes, Detour is a black and white film, which adds to its film noir aesthetic.

Q: What makes Detour stand out from other film noir movies?

A: Detour stands out for its low-budget production yet manages to convey a compelling story with memorable performances. Its gritty realism and atmospheric visuals have cemented its place as a cult classic within the film noir genre.