They Drive by Night was released on August 3, 1940, and starred George Raft, Ann Sheridan, Ida Lupino, and Humphrey Bogart supported by Alan Hale and Roscoe Karns.
This is one of those films that was perfectly cast and director Raoul Walsh knew exactly how to bring out the best from his actors. Joe Fabrini played by George is ambitious, tough, kind and friendly. His brother Paul, played by Bogart, is less ambitious and has more interest in his wife and getting a good night’s sleep than in driving a truck. George wanted Bogie for the role and they played the brothers very well.
Ann Sheridan as Cassie proves to be a good match for Joe. The scenes between them show chemistry, affection, and a natural comfort with each other that makes the romantic element of the storyline believable and charming. Ida Lupino plays Lana to the hilt proving her an actress of significant talent. George recommended Ida for the role and again demonstrated he had a talent for casting.
The story is famously bifurcated. The first half is a hard-driving tale of two brothers scrabbling to make a living from independent long-haul trucking. In the second half of the film, the story shifts to Joe managing a trucking firm as well as managing the boss’s wife, the troublemaking Lana. The pace is slower than the first half and lacks the trucking dangers, but dangers of a different sort come from a difficult and unpredictable Lana.
This movie was a big hit for Warner Bros. with top-notch performances by all. Even the critics liked it. Out of 24 reviews, the movie has received a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
They Drive by Night is available from the movies section at georgeraft.com.
