Beat the Devil is a 1953 adventure comedy film directed by John Huston, starring Humphrey Bogart, Jennifer Jones, and Gina Lollobrigida, in her American debut. The film is about a group of rogues who hope to get rich in Africa, and a seemingly innocent British couple. They meet and things happen.
The Plot
Beat the Devil is a 1953 adventure comedy film directed by John Huston. The movie follows a group of rogues who hope to get rich in Africa, and a seemingly innocent British couple. As they meet, unexpected and humorous events unfold. The film features a star-studded cast, including Humphrey Bogart, Jennifer Jones, and Gina Lollobrigida. Despite being a box office flop, the movie has gained a cult classic status due to its humorous and unconventional approach. The characters, portrayed by a mix of well-known stars and character actors, add to the film's charm. The movie is known for its humor and the unique blend of characters thrown into unusual situations.
Cast
- Humphrey Bogart as Billy Dannreuther
- Jennifer Jones as Gwendolen Chelm
- Gina Lollobrigida as Maria Dannreuther
- Robert Morley as Peterson
- Peter Lorre as Julius O'Hara
- Edward Underdown as Harry Chelm
- Ivor Barnard as Maj. Jack Ross
- Marco Tulli as Ravello
- Bernard Lee as Insp. Jack Clayton
- Mario Perrone as Purser on SS Nyanga
- Giulio Donnini as Administrator
- Saro Urzì as Captain of SS Nyanga (as Saro Urzi)
- Juan de Landa as Hispano-Suiza Driver
- Aldo Silvani as Charles
- Dave Crowley as (uncredited)
- Julie Gibson as (uncredited)
- Alex Pochet as Hotel Manager (uncredited)
- Bette Lee as hairdresser (as Bette Lee)
- Connie Reeve as makeup artist (as Constance Reeve)
Director - John Huston.
Writer - Truman Capote.
Box office Gross – No information
Distributor - United Artists
Genre - Romance, Comedy, Adventure, Crime, and Drama
Release Date: November 17, 1953
Theme
The theme of Beat the Devil can be described as a blend of humor, adventure, and unconventional characters. The film follows a group of rogues who hope to get rich in Africa and a seemingly innocent British couple. As they meet and interact, unexpected and humorous events unfold. The film's offbeat and comedic nature has contributed to its enduring popularity and cult classic status.
Reception
Beat the Devil initially received mixed reviews and was not successful at the box office. However, over time, the film has gained a cult following and is now appreciated for its offbeat humor, unconventional characters, and unique blend of genres. The review also mentions that the film is not a typical star-centric production, as it humorously integrates its stars with a group of seedy charlatans, creating an unconventional and entertaining dynamic. The film's offbeat and comedic nature has contributed to its enduring popularity.
Settings
Beat the Devil (1953) is set in various locations throughout Europe and Africa. The film begins in Italy, where the main characters are waiting for a boat to take them to Africa. The boat eventually takes them to a small port in Africa, where they encounter various challenges and unexpected events. The film's settings include a hotel in Italy, a boat traveling to Africa, a small African port town, and various other locations throughout Africa. The film's unique blend of settings, humor, and unconventional characters has contributed to its enduring popularity and cult classic status.
Trivia and Fun Facts
- The film was directed by John Huston, who was known for his versatility and ability to adapt to various genres, including adventure, crime, and drama.
- The film was written by Truman Capote, who was also a screenwriter and contributed to the scripts of several films.
- The film stars Humphrey Bogart, Jennifer Jones, and Gina Lollobrigida, who were all well-known actors at the time.
- The film was not successful at the box office upon its initial release, but has since gained a cult classic status due to its humorous and unconventional approach.
- The film's unique blend of humor, unconventional characters, and settings has made it a standout in the genre.
- The film was produced by Santana Pictures Corporation and Romulus Films, and distributed by United Artists.
- The film was released on November 17, 1953, in the United States.
