It Happened One Night (1934)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

It Happened One Night is a 1934 American romantic comedy film directed by Frank Capra and starring Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert. The film is based on the short story “Night Bus” by Samuel Hopkins Adams. It tells the story of a spoiled heiress who runs away from her family and a cynical reporter who helps her in exchange for a big story.

The Story Unfolds

Ellie Andrews’ Escape

The film begins with Ellie Andrews (Claudette Colbert), a wealthy heiress, fleeing from her father, Alexander Andrews (Walter Connolly), who disapproves of her marriage to aviator King Westley (Jameson Thomas). Ellie jumps off her father’s yacht and swims to shore, aiming to travel from Florida to New York to reunite with Westley.

Meeting Peter Warne

On her journey, Ellie encounters Peter Warne (Clark Gable), an out-of-work journalist. Recognizing Ellie from the news, Peter offers to help her reach New York in exchange for an exclusive story. Ellie reluctantly agrees, and they embark on a comedic and eventful road trip together.

The Climax and Resolution

The Journey and Growing Affection

During their journey, Peter and Ellie face numerous obstacles, including losing their money, evading detectives hired by Ellie’s father, and dealing with various quirky characters. As they travel by bus, foot, and hitchhiking, Peter teaches Ellie about the real world, and their initially contentious relationship turns into mutual respect and affection.

Misunderstandings and Realizations

Despite their growing feelings, a misunderstanding leads Ellie to believe that Peter was only interested in the reward her father offered for her return. Heartbroken, Ellie rushes back to marry King Westley. However, Peter returns to New York and confronts Alexander Andrews, revealing his true intentions and the depth of his feelings for Ellie.

The Conclusion

A Happy Ending

The film concludes with Ellie realizing her mistake and abandoning her wedding to King Westley. She returns to Peter, and the two are finally united. The film ends with the implication that they will live happily ever after.

Movie Ending

It Happened One Night ends with Ellie and Peter overcoming their misunderstandings and finding true love with each other. The film concludes with their union, signifying the triumph of genuine affection over social status and wealth.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in It Happened One Night.

Type of Movie

It Happened One Night is a romantic comedy that combines elements of adventure, social commentary, and screwball comedy, focusing on themes of love, class disparity, and personal growth.

Cast

• Clark Gable as Peter Warne
• Claudette Colbert as Ellie Andrews
• Walter Connolly as Alexander Andrews
• Jameson Thomas as King Westley
• Roscoe Karns as Shapeley
• Alan Hale as Danker

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Howard Jackson, Louis Silvers, and Louis Forbes, whose music enhances the lighthearted and romantic tone of the narrative.

Filming Locations

It Happened One Night was filmed primarily in California, including locations such as:

• The Warner Bros. Ranch in Burbank
• Malibu Lake in the Santa Monica Mountains
• Various locations to depict the cross-country journey

Awards and Nominations

It Happened One Night received numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Academy Awards: Won Best Picture, Best Director (Frank Capra), Best Actor (Clark Gable), Best Actress (Claudette Colbert), and Best Adapted Screenplay. It was the first film to win all five major Academy Awards.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Claudette Colbert was initially reluctant to take the role and only agreed after being promised double her usual salary.
• Clark Gable was loaned to Columbia Pictures from MGM as punishment for refusing a role at his home studio.
• The famous hitchhiking scene, where Ellie shows her leg to get a car to stop, was initially supposed to involve more sophisticated techniques, but Colbert’s improvisation became iconic.

Inspirations and References

It Happened One Night is based on the short story “Night Bus” by Samuel Hopkins Adams. The film reflects broader themes of social class disparity, personal freedom, and the unexpected nature of love.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of It Happened One Night closely follows Frank Capra’s vision. Some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights are available in special editions and DVD releases.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Ellie jumping off her father’s yacht to escape.
• Peter and Ellie sharing a motel room, with a blanket strung up between their beds, dubbed “The Walls of Jericho.”
• The iconic hitchhiking scene where Ellie successfully stops a car by showing her leg.
• The scene where Peter and Ellie pretend to be a bickering married couple to avoid detection by detectives.

Iconic Quotes

• “I want to see what love looks like when it’s triumphant. I haven’t had a good laugh in a week.” – Ellie Andrews
• “The walls of Jericho are coming down.” – Peter Warne
• “Well, I proved once and for all that the limb is mightier than the thumb.” – Ellie Andrews

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The “Walls of Jericho” metaphor used throughout the film symbolizes the barriers between Peter and Ellie that gradually come down as they fall in love.
• The film’s depiction of class disparity and the Great Depression adds depth to the comedic and romantic elements.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was approximately $325,000, and it grossed over $2.5 million at the box office.
• It Happened One Night is one of the earliest examples of the screwball comedy genre.
• The film’s success helped establish Columbia Pictures as a major Hollywood studio.

Why Watch?

It Happened One Night offers a timeless and charming portrayal of love and adventure, featuring standout performances by Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert, and masterful direction by Frank Capra. Its blend of comedy, romance, and social commentary makes it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema and heartwarming storytelling.

Director’s Other Movies

Frank Capra also directed:

• Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936)
• You Can’t Take It with You (1938)
• Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
• It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
• Meet John Doe (1941)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Bringing Up Baby (1938)
• His Girl Friday (1940)
• The Philadelphia Story (1940)
• Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)
• Roman Holiday (1953)