Detour, a timeless classic noir, was released in 1945 and is still regarded as one of the most memorable and powerful films of the era. Directed by Edgar G.
Ulmer and based on the novel by Martin Goldsmith, this gripping story presents a dark and twisted tale of fate, crime, and deception.
In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the book summary, movie summary, and an array of fascinating aspects surrounding this iconic work. Join me as we embark on an in-depth journey through the world of Detour.
Brief overview of Martin Goldsmith and Edgar G. Ulmer
Martin Goldsmith, born in 1913, was an American screenwriter and novelist best known for his work on Detour.
He began his career in the early 1930s, writing for various radio programs before transitioning to film and television. Goldsmith’s writing style was characterized by its raw, gritty realism, which perfectly encapsulated the essence of film noir.
Edgar G. Ulmer, an Austrian-American filmmaker, was born in 1904 and is celebrated for his contributions to the film noir genre. Ulmer began his career in Germany and later moved to Hollywood, where he eventually directed Detour.
With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for evocative storytelling, Ulmer’s directorial style has left an indelible mark on the history of cinema.
Detour: Book summary and analysis
Detour, the novel, follows the story of Al Roberts, a down-on-his-luck pianist who embarks on a cross-country journey to reunite with his fiancée, Sue.
Along the way, he encounters a series of unfortunate events and becomes entangled in a web of crime, deceit, and murder. As the story unfolds, readers are immersed in a gripping narrative that explores themes of fate, desperation, and the dark side of human nature.
The novel is characterized by its richly detailed prose and vivid portrayal of its characters, adding depth and nuance to the story. Goldsmith’s writing captures the essence of film noir, with its gritty realism and stark portrayal of the human condition.
The novel serves as a powerful reminder of the fragile nature of human morality and the inescapable consequences of our actions.
Detour: Movie summary and analysis
The film adaptation of Detour, directed by Edgar G. Ulmer, closely follows the plot of the novel and masterfully brings the story to life on the silver screen. Tom Neal stars as Al Roberts, the hapless protagonist, while Ann Savage portrays the femme fatale, Vera.
As the movie unfolds, viewers are drawn into the twisted world of Detour, where the line between right and wrong becomes increasingly blurred.
Ulmer’s direction is marked by its striking visuals and evocative storytelling. The film’s low-budget production imbues it with a raw, gritty atmosphere that perfectly complements the dark themes of the story.
The movie’s use of shadow and contrast, coupled with its haunting score by Leo Erdody, creates a palpable sense of tension and unease that lingers long after the credits roll.
Key characters: Who’s who in Detour
Detour’s cast of characters is as complex and intriguing as the story itself.
Al Roberts, the protagonist, is a skilled pianist who becomes ensnared in a harrowing tale of crime and deception. His journey is fraught with obstacles and unexpected twists, and his struggle to escape his circumstances forms the crux of the narrative.
Vera, the femme fatale, is a cunning and manipulative figure who uses her charm and wit to ensnare those around her. Her presence in Al’s life serves as the catalyst for his downward spiral and ultimately leads him to question his own morality and sense of self.
Other notable characters in Detour include Charles Haskell Jr., a mysterious figure whose untimely death sets the story in motion, and Sue, Al’s fiancée, who represents the life he left behind and the hope for redemption that drives him forward.
Unraveling the timeline: When and where Detour takes place
Detour is set in the mid-1940s and takes place across various locations in the United States.
The story begins in New York City, where Al Roberts is working as a pianist in a seedy nightclub. After his fiancée, Sue, moves to Los Angeles in pursuit of her dreams, Al decides to hitchhike across the country to join her.
His journey takes him through a series of small towns and desolate landscapes, reflecting the bleak and unforgiving nature of the world he inhabits. Ultimately, Al’s odyssey leads him to the sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles, where the story reaches its dramatic conclusion.
Iconic quotes from Detour
Detour is filled with memorable quotes that capture the essence of its characters and themes.
Some notable lines include:
- “Whichever way you turn, Fate sticks out a foot to trip you.” – Al Roberts
- “That’s life. Whichever way you turn, fate sticks out a foot to trip you.” – Vera
- “Money. You know what that is, the stuff you never have enough of. Little green things with George Washington’s picture that men slave for, commit crimes for, die for. It’s the stuff that has caused more trouble in the world than anything else we ever invented, simply because there’s too little of it.” – Al Roberts
These quotes not only provide insight into the characters’ motivations and desires, but they also serve as a testament to the skillful writing that has made Detour a timeless classic.
The soundtrack by Leo Erdody: A closer look
Leo Erdody’s haunting score for Detour is an integral component of the film’s overall atmosphere.
The music serves to heighten the tension and unease that permeate the story, with its eerie melodies and dissonant harmonies mirroring the internal turmoil of the characters.
Erdody’s use of recurring motifs and themes throughout the score adds a layer of depth and complexity to the film, reflecting the cyclical nature of fate and the inescapable consequences of our actions.
The soundtrack is a testament to the power of music as a storytelling device and its ability to enhance the emotional impact of a narrative.
Curiosities and lesser-known facts about Detour
Detour is a film shrouded in mystery and intrigue, and there are several lesser-known facts and curiosities surrounding its production and reception.
Some of these include:
- Detour was made on a shoestring budget, with filming taking place over a mere six days. Despite its limited resources, the film has garnered a reputation as one of the most iconic and influential film noirs of all time.
- The film’s low budget necessitated the use of innovative techniques and creative solutions in order to achieve its striking visual style. One such example is the use of rear projection to simulate the movement of a car, a technique that would later become a hallmark of film noir.
- Detour was added to the National Film Registry in 1992, cementing its status as a culturally significant and historically important work of American cinema.
Dressing the part: Tips for cosplay and dressing like Detour characters
For fans looking to emulate the iconic style of Detour’s characters, there are several key elements to consider:
For Al Roberts, a sharp suit and tie are essential, along with a fedora and a pensive expression to capture his brooding demeanor.
Vera‘s femme fatale look can be achieved with a form-fitting dress, bold red lipstick, and a sultry gaze.
To truly embody the essence of Detour, attention should be paid to the film’s signature use of shadow and contrast. Experiment with lighting and angles to create a sense of mystery and intrigue, and don’t be afraid to embrace the darker side of your character.
A parent’s guide to Detour
Detour is a film that deals with mature themes and subject matter, making it suitable for older teens and adults. Parents should be aware that the film contains scenes of violence, crime, and deceit, as well as the portrayal of morally ambiguous characters.
However, it is also a powerful exploration of human nature and the consequences of our actions, providing ample opportunity for discussion and reflection.
The ending explained: Dissecting the conclusion of Detour
The conclusion of Detour is both tragic and fitting, as Al Roberts, unable to escape the consequences of his actions, finds himself ensnared by the very fate he sought to avoid.
As the police close in, Al’s desperate attempts to clear his name are ultimately futile, and he is left to face justice for a crime he did not commit.
This ending serves as a powerful illustration of the film’s central themes of fate, desperation, and the inescapable nature of our actions. It is a sobering reminder of the fragility of human morality and the complex web of consequences that can arise from a single moment of weakness.
Potential for a remake, sequel, or spin-off
Given the enduring popularity of Detour and its status as a classic film noir, there has been much speculation about the possibility of a remake, sequel, or spin-off.
While no concrete plans have been announced, the story’s timeless themes and captivating characters make it ripe for reinterpretation and adaptation. A modern retelling of the story could explore the darker aspects of human nature through a contemporary lens, while still retaining the essence of the original work.
Additionally, a spin-off or sequel could delve further into the lives of Detour’s characters, providing new insights and perspectives on this iconic tale.
Other notable works by Edgar G. Ulmer
Edgar G. Ulmer’s illustrious career spanned a wide range of genres, from film noir to science fiction and horror.
Some of his other notable works include:
- The Black Cat (1934) – A horror film starring Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff, based on the short story by Edgar Allan Poe.
- Bluebeard (1944) – A thriller about a murderous puppeteer, played by John Carradine.
- The Strange Woman (1946) – A drama featuring Hedy Lamarr in a dual role as a manipulative woman with a dark past.
These films, along with Detour, showcase Ulmer’s distinctive directorial style and his ability to create compelling, visually arresting stories.
Exploring Martin Goldsmith’s literary contributions
In addition to Detour, Martin Goldsmith authored several other novels and screenplays throughout his career.
Some of his other works include:
- Double Jeopardy (1950) – A crime novel about an ex-convict who becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of deception.
- The Miraculous Fish (1954) – A collection of short stories exploring various aspects of the human experience.
- The Twilight Zone (1961) – Goldsmith wrote the screenplay for the episode “The Jungle,” which aired during the series’ third season.
Goldsmith’s body of work demonstrates his skill for crafting engaging narratives that delve into the darker aspects of human nature, and his contributions to the world of literature and film are not to be overlooked.
Similar media to Detour: Recommendations for fans
For fans of Detour who are eager to explore more film noir and similar media, the following recommendations offer a selection of captivating and thought-provoking stories:
- Double Indemnity (1944) – Directed by Billy Wilder and starring Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray, this classic film noir tells the story of an insurance salesman who becomes entangled in a deadly scheme.
- The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946) – Based on the novel by James M. Cain, this film features Lana Turner and John Garfield in a tale of passion, betrayal, and murder.
- The Maltese Falcon (1941) – Starring Humphrey Bogart as private detective Sam Spade, this iconic film adaptation of Dashiell Hammett’s novel is a must-watch for fans of film noir.
Book club discussion questions for Detour
For those looking to engage in a deeper exploration of Detour, the following book club discussion questions offer a starting point for conversation and analysis:
- How does Detour explore the themes of fate and the consequences of our actions? Do you believe that Al Roberts is a victim of circumstance, or is he responsible for his own downfall?
- What role does Vera play in the story, and how does her character embody the archetype of the femme fatale?
- How does Goldsmith’s writing style contribute to the overall atmosphere and tone of the novel? How does this compare to the visual style of the film adaptation?
- In what ways does Detour reflect the social and cultural context of the 1940s? How might a modern retelling of the story differ in its portrayal of these themes?
Detour-inspired video games and interactive experiences
The immersive world of Detour lends itself well to interactive experiences and video games. Fans can explore the dark, atmospheric environments and engage with the story’s themes through a variety of gaming platforms:
- L.A. Noire (2011) – This detective-themed video game, set in 1940s Los Angeles, allows players to investigate crimes and navigate the seedy underworld of film noir.
- Grim Fandango (1998) – A classic point-and-click adventure game, Grim Fandango combines elements of film noir with a unique, stylized aesthetic.
- The Wolf Among Us (2013) – In this episodic graphic adventure game, players assume the role of a detective in a world inspired by film noir and classic fairy tales.
A travel guide to visiting iconic Detour film locations
For those looking to immerse themselves in the world of Detour, visiting the film’s iconic locations can provide a unique and memorable experience.
Key sites to consider include:
- New York City – As the starting point of Al Roberts’ journey, the bustling streets of New York City offer a glimpse into the world that he left behind.
- The open road – The desolate landscapes and small towns that Al encounters on his cross-country journey can be explored through a road trip across the United States, allowing fans to experience the sense of isolation and desperation that pervades the story.
- Los Angeles – The City of Angels serves as the backdrop for the film’s dramatic conclusion, and visiting its sun-soaked streets and historic landmarks can provide insight into the world of Detour.
Conclusion: The lasting impact of Detour on modern media
Detour’s enduring popularity and influence on modern media are a testament to the power of its story and the skill of its creators.
From its captivating characters and engaging narrative, to its striking visual style and haunting soundtrack, Detour remains a timeless classic that continues to fascinate and inspire audiences across generations.By exploring the various aspects of this iconic work, we gain a deeper appreciation for its impact on the worlds of literature, film, and beyond.
Whether through book club discussions, cosplay, or visits to film locations, fans can continue to engage with and celebrate the legacy of Detour for years to come.
