Lonely Are the Brave

About 'Lonely Are the Brave'

'Lonely Are the Brave' is a 1962 film that tells the story of a cowboy's struggle to exist in the modern world. The cowboy, named Jack Burns, intentionally gets himself into trouble to rescue his friend. However, when Jack escapes from jail on his horse, he becomes a target for a manhunt. The film is a striking commentary on individualism and the manner in which society may suppress it.

Making / Production

The film was directed by David Miller and produced by Edward Lewis. The screenplay was written by Dalton Trumbo, who was at the time blacklisted, and is based on the novel 'The Brave Cowboy' by Edward Abbey. Filming took place in New Mexico, with its wide-open spaces brilliantly captured in black and white, adding to the film's thematic emphasis on freedom.

Actors

• Kirk Douglas as Jack Burns: Douglas delivers a memorable performance, conveying the tragic heroism of a character struggling against a society that no longer has a place for men like him.
• Gena Rowlands as Jerry Bondi: She portrayed the conflicted love interest excellently, adding emotional depth to her scenes.
• Walter Matthau as Sheriff Morey Johnson: Matthau brought his signature charm to the role of the sheriff, creating a character who is sympathetic yet duty-bound.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This was one of Kirk Douglas's favorite films.
• Screenwriter Dalton Trumbo appears in a small role, credited under a pseudonym due to his blacklisted status.

Quotes

• "It’s not the jail that’s the problem, it’s getting out that gets you."
• "I don't want a house, I want a place to move around and see something different every day."

Music, Soundtrack

• The music was composed by Jerry Goldsmith, who effectively used a solo trumpet to underline the solitary nature of the protagonist.
• One special track, "The Lonely Man Theme," brilliantly encapsulates the mood of the entire film.