Cast
View All
Richard Carlson
as Dr. Geoffrey Burton
Nancy Kelly
as Pat Lindsay
Albert Bassermann
as Dr. Storm
Miles Mander
as Professor Langer
Edward Gargan
as Officer Charlie Prescott
Adrian Morris
as Officer John Prescott
Martin Kosleck
as George Taylor
Walter Kingsford
as Heydt
Cy Kendall
as Dahlig
Nestor Paiva
as Grube
Oscar O'Shea
as Pa Prescott
Mary Gordon
as Ma Prescott
Arthur Loft
as Inspector Karns
Marion Martin
as Nurse
Clem Bevans
as Station Watchman
Crew
Director
- Robert Siodmak
Writer
- Jay Dratler
- F. Hugh Herbert
Producer
- Sol C. Siegel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Fly By Night represents a fascinating example of Thriller/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 Robert Siodmak 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 1942, 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 Fly By Night took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 74 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 1512 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1942, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Fly By Night shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Broken Embraces, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Fly By Night subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Attack of the Killer Tomatoes! and Acting on Impulse explore similar territory, Fly By Night stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 19, 1942
- Runtime: 1h 14m
