One-line Summary:
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? (1969) by Sydney Pollack
A desperate group of contestants participate in a grueling dance marathon during the Great Depression, where they face physical and emotional exhaustion, exploitation, and the harsh realities of life.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Sydney Pollack
- Writer: James Poe (screenplay), Robert E. Thompson (novel)
- Main Actors: Jane Fonda as Gloria Beatty, Michael Sarrazin as Robert Syverton, Gig Young as Rocky, Susannah York as Alice, Red Buttons as Harry Kline
- Music Director: Johnny Green
- Director of Photography: Philip H. Lathrop
- Producers: Robert Chartoff, Irwin Winkler
Plot:
In the midst of the Great Depression, Gloria Beatty (Jane Fonda), a young woman desperate for money, joins a dance marathon in hopes of winning the cash prize. She partners with Robert Syverton (Michael Sarrazin), a disillusioned aspiring film director. As the marathon progresses, the contestants endure physical and emotional exhaustion, pushed to their limits by the manipulative and sadistic emcee, Rocky (Gig Young).
The contestants, including Alice (Susannah York) and Harry (Red Buttons), form a tight-knit community, relying on each other for support. However, as the days turn into weeks, the relentless competition takes its toll. The participants face physical injuries, sleep deprivation, and the constant fear of elimination. Their dreams of a better life slowly fade away, replaced by a grim reality.
Gloria and Robert form a bond amidst the chaos, finding solace in each other’s company. They share their hopes and fears, their dreams and disappointments. As the marathon reaches its climax, the desperation and despair escalate. The contestants are reduced to mere objects of entertainment, their humanity stripped away for the amusement of the audience.
Themes and Motifs:
Survival: The film explores the lengths people will go to survive in desperate times, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of extreme competition and exploitation.
Illusion vs. Reality: The dance marathon serves as a microcosm of society, where appearances can be deceiving, and the pursuit of dreams can lead to disillusionment.
Isolation: Despite being surrounded by others, the characters experience profound loneliness and isolation as they struggle to connect with one another in a world that seems indifferent to their suffering.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release, “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” received critical acclaim for its powerful performances and bleak portrayal of the human condition. The film was nominated for nine Academy Awards, including Best Director for Sydney Pollack and Best Actress for Jane Fonda, winning one for Gig Young’s supporting role.
The movie’s impact on cinema is significant, as it continues to be recognized as a classic exploration of the darker side of humanity. Its themes of survival, illusion, and isolation resonate with audiences, reminding us of the lengths people will go to endure and the toll it takes on their humanity.
Recommendation:
“They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” is a thought-provoking and emotionally intense film that delves into the depths of human desperation. With its stellar performances and haunting portrayal of the Great Depression era, it is a must-watch for those interested in character-driven dramas and social commentary.
Memorable Quote:
“They shoot horses, don’t they?” – Gloria Beatty (Jane Fonda)
