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The Day the Hot Line Got Hot

The Day the Hot Line Got Hot (1968)

Jan 01, 1968 1h 36m Comedy

The most ultra-secret telephone number of all is that of the "Hot'Line' that links the heads of state of the United States and Moscow. A conniving double agent manages to steal the top secret phone number and then begins to implement chaos by phoning Washington and Moscow, telling the two powers that their respective spy chiefs are traitors. It's spy versus spy, agent versus double agent, counter spy against counter-counter spy in a rapidly increasing international crisis that finds its solution on the stage of Chinese theater in Barcelona, Spain as the spy leaders, the traitorous agent, a beautiful girl, three old ladies, a young man caught up in the chain of events and a troupe of acrobats collide head on in battle.

Directed by Étienne Périer

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Étienne Périer
Producer
  • Alexander Salkind

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Thematic Analysis

The Day the Hot Line Got Hot represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Étienne Périer brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1968, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Day the Hot Line Got Hot took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1968, when this film was released:
  • The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
  • Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1968
  • Runtime: 1h 36m

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