37 Facts about the movie One-Eyed Jacks

One-Eyed Jacks, released in 1961, is a classic western film that has captivated moviegoers for generations. Directed by Marlon Brando, this film stands out not only for its gripping storyline and memorable characters, but also for its unique place in cinema history. Set in the wild west of the 1880s, One-Eyed Jacks tells the story of Rio, played by Marlon Brando, as he seeks revenge on his former partner, Dad Longworth, portrayed by Karl Malden. The film takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the rugged landscapes of California and Mexico, showcasing the beauty and violence of the old west. With its compelling narrative, powerful performances, and stunning cinematography, One-Eyed Jacks continues to be a beloved favorite among fans of the western genre. In this article, we will delve into 37 fascinating facts about this iconic film.

Key Takeaways:

• Marlon Brando’s “One-Eyed Jacks” is a classic Western film with a tumultuous production history and a compelling tale of revenge, loyalty, and redemption.
• Despite initial mixed reviews, “One-Eyed Jacks” has gained a cult following, showcasing the enduring impact of Brando’s directorial debut in the Western genre.

One-Eyed Jacks was originally titled “The Last Chance”.

The film went through several title changes during its development, finally settling on One-Eyed Jacks just before its release.

Marlon Brando initially wanted Stanley Kubrick to direct the film.

However, after disagreements between Brando and Kubrick arose, Brando decided to helm the project himself.

One-Eyed Jacks was Brando’s only directorial effort.

Despite his lack of experience behind the camera, Brando’s unique vision and dedication made for a memorable film.

The film was based on the novel “The Authentic Death of Hendry Jones” by Charles Neider.

Brando took inspiration from Neider’s novel and worked closely with screenwriter Calder Willingham to adapt it into a screenplay.

One-Eyed Jacks was a commercial success.

The film earned over $6 million at the box office, making it one of the top-grossing films of 1961.

The production of One-Eyed Jacks was plagued with delays and budget overruns.

Brando’s meticulous attention to detail and perfectionism caused the film’s production to extend far beyond its original schedule and budget.

Many scenes were filmed on location in Mexico.

The stunning landscapes of Sonora, Mexico provided the backdrop for several key scenes in the movie.

The score for One-Eyed Jacks was composed by Hugo Friedhofer.

Friedhofer’s evocative music perfectly complemented the film’s dramatic moments, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Karl Malden co-starred alongside Marlon Brando.

Malden delivered a powerful performance as the loyal partner turned bitter enemy of Brando’s character.

One-Eyed Jacks was the only film produced by Pennebaker Productions.

Despite the success of the film, Pennebaker Productions dissolved shortly after its release.

The film was praised for its cinematography.

Charles Lang Jr.’s stunning camera work captured the beauty and intensity of the Western landscape.

One-Eyed Jacks underwent significant editing after Brando completed filming.

Brando’s original cut of the film was over five hours long, but it was eventually trimmed down to just under two and a half hours.

The theme of revenge plays a central role in the film.

One-Eyed Jacks explores themes of betrayal, vengeance, and redemption, making it a compelling watch.

The movie features memorable shootouts and action sequences.

Brando’s attention to detail and dedication to authenticity made the gunfights in One-Eyed Jacks realistic and intense.

The film was initially released with a “Approved for Mature Audiences” rating.

However, a few years later, it was re-rated to “Suitable for audiences 12 and over”.

One-Eyed Jacks was nominated for an Academy Award.

The film received a nomination for the Best Cinematography – Color category at the 34th Academy Awards.

Brando’s portrayal of Rio was deemed one of his finest performances.

His nuanced portrayal of the complex and morally ambiguous character elevated the film to another level.

The movie features a memorable horse-riding scene.

Brando’s character Rio showcases his horsemanship skills in a thrilling and visually captivating sequence.

The dialogue in One-Eyed Jacks is known for its sharp wit and memorable lines.

The script, crafted by Calder Willingham and Guy Trosper, captures the essence of the characters and their motivations.

The film explores the theme of redemption.

Throughout the movie, characters search for a chance at redemption, culminating in a poignant and thought-provoking ending.

One-Eyed Jacks was a personal project for Marlon Brando.

He had a strong vision for the film and was deeply involved in all aspects of its production.

The movie was initially met with mixed reviews from critics.

While some praised Brando’s performance and the film’s visual aesthetics, others criticized its pacing and narrative structure.

Despite the initial mixed reception, One-Eyed Jacks has gained a cult following over the years.

Its reputation as a unique and intriguing Western has only grown with time.

The film explores the complexities of friendship and loyalty.

Brando’s character Rio and Karl Malden’s character Dad Longworth go from being partners in crime to sworn enemies, showcasing the fragile nature of trust.

One-Eyed Jacks features several memorable supporting performances.

The talented ensemble cast brings depth and authenticity to their respective characters, making the movie even more engaging to watch.

The film’s title refers to a type of playing card.

The “one-eyed jacks” in a deck of cards are the Jack of Hearts and the Jack of Spades.

One-Eyed Jacks is known for its atmospheric and moody visuals.

The cinematography and art direction create a sense of tension and unease throughout the film.

Brando’s character Rio seeks revenge against his former partner.

The film explores the moral and emotional consequences of Rio’s single-minded pursuit of vengeance.

The movie’s runtime is approximately 141 minutes.

Despite its extended production period, the final cut of One-Eyed Jacks strikes a balance between storytelling and pacing.

One-Eyed Jacks marked the end of an era for Western films.

The movie came out during a time when the popularity of Westerns was on the decline, but it remains a standout in the genre.

The film’s screenplay went through multiple revisions before production began.

Brando was known for his meticulous approach to crafting the story and dialogue.

One-Eyed Jacks showcases the rugged beauty of the American West.

The breathtaking landscapes serve as a backdrop to the characters’ journey and add to the overall cinematic experience.

The movie’s budget exceeded $6 million.

Considering the era in which it was made, One-Eyed Jacks was a high-budget production.

One-Eyed Jacks was released by Paramount Pictures.

The film was distributed by one of the leading studios in Hollywood at the time.

The movie’s screenplay was heavily influenced by the works of Tennessee Williams.

Brando, a friend and admirer of Williams, incorporated elements of the playwright’s style into the script.

The movie’s score features a hauntingly beautiful main theme.

Hugo Friedhofer’s music adds depth and emotion to the film’s most pivotal moments.

One-Eyed Jacks continues to inspire filmmakers and actors to this day.

Its impact on the Western genre and Brando’s legacy as both an actor and a filmmaker is undeniable.

So there you have it, 37 fascinating facts about the movie One-Eyed Jacks. Whether you’re a fan of Westerns or simply appreciate great cinema, this Marlon Brando-directed film is definitely one to add to your watchlist!

Conclusion

One-Eyed Jacks is truly a remarkable movie that deserves recognition for its unique storyline, talented cast, and stylish direction. With its gripping plot, compelling performances, and beautiful cinematography, it is no wonder that the film has earned a special place in the hearts of movie enthusiasts. Whether you are a fan of Westerns or simply appreciate exceptional filmmaking, One-Eyed Jacks offers an unforgettable viewing experience. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and prepare to be captivated by this classic piece of cinema.

FAQs

1. What is the plot of One-Eyed Jacks?

The movie follows the story of Rio, played by Marlon Brando, a bandit seeking revenge on his former partner Dad Longworth, portrayed by Karl Malden. Rio’s quest for vengeance takes him on a thrilling journey of betrayal, love, and redemption.

2. Who directed One-Eyed Jacks?

One-Eyed Jacks was directed by Marlon Brando himself. It marked his only directorial effort, showcasing his unique vision and filmmaking style.

3. When was One-Eyed Jacks released?

The movie was released on March 30, 1961.

4. Who are the main cast members of One-Eyed Jacks?

The main cast includes Marlon Brando, Karl Malden, and Pina Pellicer, who deliver exceptional performances that bring the characters to life.

5. Is One-Eyed Jacks based on a true story?

No, One-Eyed Jacks is a fictional story written by Guy Trosper and Calder Willingham. However, it is loosely inspired by the novel “The Authentic Death of Hendry Jones” by Charles Neider.

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