It Happened One Night

Watch It Happened One Night

"An unforgettable entertainment...the outstanding performance of two outstanding careers!"
  • Passed
  • 1934
  • 1 hr 45 min
  • 8.1  (111,991)
  • 87

It Happened One Night is a romantic comedy film from 1934, directed by Frank Capra and starring Clark Gable, Claudette Colbert, and Walter Connolly. The movie tells the story of a spoiled heiress, Ellie Andrews (Colbert), who runs away from her father's yacht and an arranged marriage to be with the man she loves. Along the way, she meets a cynical and charming newspaper reporter, Peter Warne (Gable), who agrees to help her get to New York City in exchange for an exclusive story.

The film begins with Ellie arguing with her father about her recent elopement with aviator King Westley. She escapes to Miami, where she boards a bus to New York City. On the bus, Ellie meets Peter, who is also on his way to New York to get a job. Ellie initially rebuffs Peter's attempts at conversation, but when she is recognized by other passengers, she realizes that she needs his help to avoid being brought back to her father. Peter agrees to help her, but only if she promises to give him the exclusive story of her escape.

As they travel together, Ellie and Peter's relationship grows, and they become closer. Peter teaches Ellie how to properly hitchhike and even gives her his own suit jacket to keep her warm. They encounter several obstacles on their journey, including losing all their money and being forced to share a motel room. Despite their differences in social status and personal beliefs, Ellie and Peter develop feelings for each other.

One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is the famous "Wall of Jericho" scene, in which Peter and Ellie separate their shared motel room with a blanket hung from the ceiling like a wall. The scene is both humorous and romantic, highlighting the growing attraction between the two characters.

Eventually, they make it to New York City, where Ellie reconciles with her father and prepares to marry King Westley. However, Ellie realizes that she has fallen in love with Peter and decides to reunite with him. Peter, however, has realized that his love for Ellie is genuine and that he cannot let her go. In a touching, emotional finale, Peter goes to Ellie and confesses his love for her. The two embrace, and the film ends with them sharing a taxi to their next adventure.

It Happened One Night was a huge critical and commercial success, winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Clark Gable. The film's witty writing, charming performances, and timeless story have made it a beloved classic of the romantic comedy genre. Colbert's performance as Ellie Andrews is particularly noteworthy, as she brings a depth and complexity to a character that could have been portrayed as simply spoiled and entitled.

Overall, It Happened One Night is a must-see for fans of classic films and romantic comedies. Its endearing characters, classic scenes, and timeless story have made it a beloved classic that continues to be enjoyed by audiences today.

It Happened One Night is a 1934 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1 and a MetaScore of 87.

It Happened One Night
Description
Where to Watch It Happened One Night
It Happened One Night is available to watch free on YouTube. It's also available to stream, download and buy on demand at Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube VOD and Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent It Happened One Night for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    1934
  • MPAA Rating
    Passed
  • Runtime
    1 hr 45 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    8.1  (111,991)
  • Metascore
    87