Synopsis
It Happened One Night (1934), directed by Frank Capra, follows spoiled heiress Ellie Andrews as she flees her controlling father and crosses paths with down-on-his-luck journalist Peter Warne. Their bickering road trip romance became the blueprint for the screwball comedy genre. The film made history as the first to sweep all five top Oscar categories, including Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, and Screenplay.
Did You Know?
- First film to win all five major Academy Awards.
- Clark Gable reportedly caused undershirt sales to plummet nationwide.
- Both leads initially did not want to make the film.
- Director Frank Capra shot it in just four weeks.
- It was considered a box office disappointment upon initial release.
Iconic Quotes
- It Happened One Night is generally considered the first screwball comedy.
- Peter Warne: 'Shapely legs are more important than a good brain.'
- Ellie Andrews: 'You're the most contemptible person I've ever met!'
- Peter Warne: 'I'll stop a car, and I won't use my thumb.'
- Peter Warne: 'Do you love her? Does she love you? Then get out of here!'
