Cool Hand Luke (1967)

Last updated:
October 6, 2024

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Cool Hand Luke is a 1967 American prison drama film directed by Stuart Rosenberg, starring Paul Newman, George Kennedy, and Strother Martin. Based on Donn Pearce’s 1965 novel of the same name, the film tells the story of Luke Jackson, a man sentenced to a chain gang in the Deep South and his defiant struggle against the oppressive system.

The Story Unfolds

Luke’s Arrest and Imprisonment

The film begins with Lucas “Luke” Jackson (Paul Newman) being arrested for drunkenly vandalizing parking meters. Sentenced to two years in a Florida chain gang prison, Luke quickly establishes himself as a nonconformist. Despite his nonchalant attitude, he gains the respect of his fellow inmates and the ire of the prison authorities, particularly the Captain (Strother Martin) and the Boss Godfrey (Morgan Woodward), who is known as “the man with no eyes” due to his reflective sunglasses.

Defiance and Camaraderie

Luke’s rebellious spirit is showcased in various ways, from winning a brutal boxing match against the gang leader Dragline (George Kennedy) to eating 50 hard-boiled eggs in an hour as a bet. His acts of defiance and indomitable spirit earn him the nickname “Cool Hand Luke” and make him a hero among the inmates. However, his continual resistance also brings harsh punishments from the guards.

The Climax and Resolution

Escapes and Recaptures

Luke makes several escape attempts, each time being recaptured and subjected to brutal punishment. Despite the severe repercussions, his spirit remains unbroken, and his escapes become legendary among the inmates. The prison authorities attempt to break Luke’s spirit through psychological and physical torture, including prolonged periods in “the box” (a small confinement cell).

The Final Escape

In his final attempt, Luke escapes with Dragline but ends up in a church where he has a moment of introspection and prays for guidance. Dragline tries to persuade him to surrender, but Luke mocks the authorities by imitating the Captain’s words. The police surround the church, and when Luke looks through a window, he is shot in the neck by Boss Godfrey. As Luke is taken away, Dragline attacks Godfrey, shattering his sunglasses, symbolizing the end of his power.

The Conclusion

Luke’s Legacy

The film ends with the inmates reminiscing about Luke and his enduring spirit. Despite his death, Luke’s legacy lives on among the prisoners, inspiring them to maintain their hope and resistance against the oppressive system.

Movie Ending

Cool Hand Luke ends with the tragic death of Luke Jackson, but his spirit and defiance leave a lasting impact on his fellow inmates. The film concludes with a sense of hope and resilience, symbolized by Dragline’s fond memories of Luke.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Cool Hand Luke.

Type of Movie

Cool Hand Luke is a prison drama film that combines elements of social commentary, rebellion, and human spirit, focusing on themes of resistance, freedom, and the struggle against oppression.

Cast

Paul Newman as Luke Jackson
George Kennedy as Dragline
Strother Martin as the Captain
Morgan Woodward as Boss Godfrey
Jo Van Fleet as Arletta (Luke’s mother)
Lou Antonio as Koko
J.D. Cannon as Society Red

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Lalo Schifrin, whose music enhances the emotional depth and thematic elements of the narrative.

Filming Locations

Cool Hand Luke was filmed in various locations, including:

Stockton, California: For the chain gang scenes and rural settings.
San Joaquin River Delta: For the swamp scenes.

Awards and Nominations

Cool Hand Luke received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:

Academy Awards: Won Best Supporting Actor (George Kennedy). Nominated for Best Actor (Paul Newman), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Music Score, and Best Cinematography.
Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama (Paul Newman) and Best Supporting Actor (George Kennedy).

Behind the Scenes Insights

Paul Newman’s portrayal of Luke Jackson is considered one of his most iconic roles, showcasing his ability to blend charm and rebelliousness.
The film’s famous line, “What we’ve got here is failure to communicate,” delivered by Strother Martin’s Captain, has become one of the most memorable quotes in cinema history.
The egg-eating scene was a challenge to film, with Newman consuming real eggs for the shoot.

Inspirations and References

Cool Hand Luke is based on Donn Pearce’s novel, which was inspired by Pearce’s own experiences in a Florida prison. The film reflects broader themes of individualism, resistance to authority, and the human spirit’s capacity for endurance and rebellion.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Cool Hand Luke closely follows Stuart Rosenberg’s vision. Some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights are available in special editions and DVD releases.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

Luke’s initial arrest and imprisonment.
The boxing match between Luke and Dragline.
The famous egg-eating challenge.
Luke’s multiple escape attempts and recaptures.
The final showdown in the church and Luke’s death.

Iconic Quotes

“What we’ve got here is failure to communicate.” – The Captain
“Sometimes nothing can be a real cool hand.” – Luke Jackson
“Calling it your job don’t make it right, Boss.” – Luke Jackson

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The film includes subtle biblical references, such as Luke’s Christ-like qualities and his final scene in the church.
The shattered sunglasses of Boss Godfrey symbolize the breaking of oppressive power.

Trivia

The film’s budget was approximately $3.2 million, and it grossed over $16 million worldwide.
George Kennedy won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Dragline.
The film has been preserved in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Why Watch?

Cool Hand Luke offers a powerful and emotionally resonant portrayal of rebellion and the human spirit, featuring standout performances, particularly by Paul Newman and George Kennedy, and masterful direction by Stuart Rosenberg. Its blend of intense drama, social commentary, and memorable characters makes it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema and thought-provoking storytelling.

Director’s Other Movies

Stuart Rosenberg also directed:

Voyage of the Damned (1976)
The Amityville Horror (1979)
Brubaker (1980)
Pope of Greenwich Village (1984)
My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys (1991)