Faye Lussier

Written by Faye Lussier

Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

44-facts-about-the-movie-saboteur
Source: Tcm.com

Saboteur is a classic thriller film directed by the master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock. Released in 1942, the movie takes the audience on a thrilling ride as it explores themes of sabotage, espionage, and mistaken identity during World War II. With its gripping storyline, memorable characters, and Hitchcock’s trademark suspenseful moments, Saboteur has become a beloved film in the thriller genre. In this article, we will delve into 44 fascinating facts about the movie Saboteur, shedding light on behind-the-scenes details, interesting trivia, and the impact the film has had on cinema. So, buckle up and get ready to uncover the secrets behind this thrilling Hitchcock masterpiece.

Key Takeaways:

  • Alfred Hitchcock’s “Saboteur” is a thrilling movie released in 1942, filled with suspense, action, and thought-provoking themes like loyalty and justice.
  • The film showcases Hitchcock’s mastery in creating tension and suspense, making it a beloved classic in his filmography and a must-watch for fans of thrilling movies.
Table of Contents

Saboteur was directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

Alfred Hitchcock, often referred to as the Master of Suspense, was the renowned director behind the movie Saboteur. Hitchcock was known for his skill in creating tension and suspense in his films.

The movie was released in 1942.

Saboteur was released during World War II, which added an extra layer of relevance to its storyline about espionage and sabotage.

The screenplay was written by Peter Viertel and Joan Harrison.

Peter Viertel and Joan Harrison collaborated to write the screenplay for Saboteur. They were both frequent collaborators with Hitchcock throughout his career.

The film stars Robert Cummings as the main protagonist.

Robert Cummings plays the role of Barry Kane, the man wrongfully accused of sabotage in the movie. Cummings portrays the character with a mixture of determination and vulnerability.

Priscilla Lane portrays the female lead in the film.

Priscilla Lane plays the character of Patricia Martin, who becomes Kane’s ally in his quest to prove his innocence. Lane brings charm and strength to her role.

The movie features iconic Hitchcockian themes.

Saboteur incorporates several elements that are characteristic of Alfred Hitchcock’s films, including mistaken identity, chase sequences, and a suspenseful climax.

The film explores the theme of loyalty.

Throughout Saboteur, the theme of loyalty is examined as the characters navigate a world filled with deception and betrayal.

The movie was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Story.

Saboteur received recognition for its compelling storyline with a nomination for Best Original Story at the Academy Awards.

The iconic Statue of Liberty sequence is a standout moment.

One of the most memorable scenes in Saboteur is the climactic sequence atop the Statue of Liberty, where the final confrontation takes place.

The film showcases Hitchcock’s signature cameo appearance.

As with many of Hitchcock’s films, Saboteur features a brief cameo appearance by the director himself. In this film, he can be seen in a newsreel.

The movie was initially titled “The Hidden Power”.

Prior to its release, Saboteur was originally titled “The Hidden Power”. The title was changed to better reflect the film’s plot and themes.

It was shot in black and white.

Saboteur was filmed in black and white, adding to the film noir aesthetic and enhancing the suspenseful atmosphere.

The film was Hitchcock’s first collaboration with Universal Pictures.

Saboteur marked Alfred Hitchcock’s first partnership with Universal Pictures, leading to a successful working relationship that continued with future projects.

The movie explores the fear of infiltration and sabotage during wartime.

Being released during World War II, Saboteur taps into the fears and paranoia that the American society experienced at the time.

The film features thrilling action sequences.

Saboteur is filled with exciting action sequences, including a plane crash, a runaway truck, and a tense final confrontation.

The movie blends suspense and humor.

Hitchcock expertly balances moments of intense suspense with occasional lighthearted humor, creating a unique tone throughout Saboteur.

Saboteur showcases Hitchcock’s visual storytelling techniques.

Through the use of camera angles, lighting, and composition, Hitchcock masterfully tells the story of Saboteur visually, creating a captivating viewing experience.

The film has a memorable score composed by Frank Skinner.

Frank Skinner composed the music for Saboteur, which adds to the tension and atmosphere of the film.

The movie explores the idea of a hidden enemy within society.

Saboteur delves into the theme of a hidden enemy operating within society, posing a constant threat to national security.

It features a thrilling chase across the rooftops of New York City.

One of the standout sequences in Saboteur is a thrilling rooftop chase through the city streets of New York, showcasing Hitchcock’s knack for creating suspenseful action.

The film was influenced by Hitchcock’s experiences in England during World War II.

Hitchcock drew upon his own experiences in England during the war to add authenticity and depth to the story of Saboteur.

The movie explores the idea of blind patriotism.

Saboteur raises questions about blind patriotism and the importance of questioning the motives of those in power.

It showcases Hitchcock’s trademark MacGuffin.

In Saboteur, Hitchcock employs the use of a MacGuffin, an object or goal that drives the plot forward but is ultimately less important than the characters’ pursuit of it.

The film’s plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Saboteur keeps the audience guessing with its intricate plot, constantly throwing unexpected twists and turns at the viewers.

The movie’s runtime is approximately 109 minutes.

Saboteur has a runtime of around 109 minutes, allowing for a well-paced and suspenseful storytelling experience.

It was one of Hitchcock’s earlier American films.

Saboteur was part of Alfred Hitchcock’s earlier body of work in America, showcasing his growing mastery of the craft.

The film explores themes of betrayal and trust.

Throughout Saboteur, the characters grapple with issues of betrayal and trust as they navigate a treacherous landscape filled with hidden agendas.

The movie features Hitchcock’s trademark dark humor.

Hitchcock infuses Saboteur with his signature dark humor, providing moments of levity amidst the tension and suspense.

It highlights the importance of standing up for what is right.

Saboteur emphasizes the significance of taking a stand against injustice and fighting for the truth, even in the face of adversity.

The film’s production values are impressive for its time.

Considering the limitations of filmmaking technology in the 1940s, Saboteur boasts impressive production values, showcasing Hitchcock’s visionary approach.

It serves as a timely reminder of the consequences of unchecked power.

Saboteur warns against the dangers of unchecked power and the potential for corruption, serving as a timely reminder of the importance of accountability.

The movie showcases Hitchcock’s expertise in building suspense.

Hitchcock’s ability to build tension and suspense is fully evident in Saboteur, with each scene crafted to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

It explores the idea of redemption.

Saboteur delves into the theme of redemption as the characters confront their past actions and strive for personal growth.

The film features a stellar supporting cast.

Alongside Robert Cummings and Priscilla Lane, Saboteur boasts a talented ensemble cast that includes Otto Kruger, Norman Lloyd, and Alan Baxter.

It was a commercial success upon its release.

Saboteur was well-received by audiences and became a commercial success upon its release, further solidifying Hitchcock’s status as a master filmmaker.

The movie showcases the director’s mastery of suspenseful set pieces.

Hitchcock’s knack for crafting suspenseful set pieces is on full display in Saboteur, with each sequence meticulously constructed to maximize tension.

It highlights the importance of trust and loyalty.

Saboteur explores the repercussions of broken trust and emphasizes the significance of remaining loyal to those who deserve it.

The film’s climax is a nail-biting showdown.

The climax of Saboteur is a pulse-pounding showdown that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats until the very end.

It showcases Hitchcock’s meticulous attention to detail.

Hitchcock’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout Saboteur, from the intricacies of the plot to the carefully crafted visuals.

The movie explores the idea of justice.

Saboteur probes the concept of justice and the lengths one is willing to go to seek it, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

The film’s ending leaves room for interpretation.

Saboteur concludes with an ending that leaves room for interpretation, allowing the audience to ponder the implications and draw their own conclusions.

It showcases Hitchcock’s trademark suspense-building techniques.

Hitchcock employs his trademark suspense-building techniques in Saboteur, from the use of dramatic irony to the skillful manipulation of audience expectations.

The movie highlights the psychological toll of suspicion and paranoia.

Saboteur delves into the psychological toll of living in a world filled with suspicion and paranoia, exploring its effects on the characters’ psyche.

It remains a beloved classic in the Hitchcock filmography.

Saboteur continues to be regarded as a beloved classic in Alfred Hitchcock’s filmography, showcasing his prowess as a storyteller and master of suspense.

As you can see, The 44 Facts about the movie Saboteur provide a comprehensive overview of this iconic film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. From its intriguing storyline and memorable set pieces to its exploration of themes such as loyalty, justice, and the consequences of fear, Saboteur remains a classic in the suspense genre. Whether you’re a fan of Hitchcock’s work or simply enjoy a thrilling and thought-provoking movie, Saboteur is definitely a must-watch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Saboteur” is a thrilling and captivating movie that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With its gripping storyline, dynamic characters, and breathtaking action sequences, it has earned a well-deserved place in film history. The 44 facts mentioned in this article only scratch the surface of the movie’s rich history and impact. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema or simply looking for an exciting and entertaining experience, “Saboteur” is a must-watch film that will leave you wanting more.

FAQs

Q: Who directed the movie “Saboteur”?

A: “Saboteur” was directed by the legendary filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock.

Q: When was “Saboteur” released?

A: The movie was released on April 24, 1942.

Q: Who were the main actors in “Saboteur”?

A: The film starred Robert Cummings as the protagonist, Barry Kane, and Priscilla Lane as Patricia Martin.

Q: What is the genre of “Saboteur”?

A: “Saboteur” falls under the genre of suspense thriller.

Q: Where was “Saboteur” primarily filmed?

A: The movie was primarily filmed on location in various parts of California and New York.

Q: Did “Saboteur” receive any awards or nominations?

A: “Saboteur” was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Story.

Q: Is “Saboteur” based on a true story?

A: No, the movie is a work of fiction and not based on a true story.

Q: How long is the running time of “Saboteur”?

A: The film has a running time of approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes.

Q: Can we expect any memorable quotes from “Saboteur”?

A: Yes, “Saboteur” features several memorable quotes, such as “Before you die, my dear, perhaps you would like to know just how little I thought of you” and “I don’t put much stock in fancy terminology.

Q: Is “Saboteur” suitable for all audiences?

A: The movie is generally considered suitable for mature audiences due to its suspenseful and intense moments.

If you're captivated by the thrilling world of Saboteur, why not explore more intriguing facts about the legendary director Alfred Hitchcock? Uncover secrets of his life and career, from early days to his rise as the master of suspense. For those who crave edge-of-your-seat excitement, dive into gripping details surrounding classic thriller movies that redefined the genre. And if you're a fan of timeless cinema, take a journey back in time to discover fascinating facts behind iconic classic films like Butterfield 8, starring Elizabeth Taylor in one of her most memorable roles.

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