Remember the Night

Remember the Night

Year: 1940

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Director: Mitchell Leisen

DramaComedyRomance

During the Christmas season, District Attorney John Sargent lets shoplifter Lee Leander go, offering her a ride to her family in Indiana. This unexpected kindness sparks an unlikely connection between the hardened prosecutor and the spirited young woman. As they journey through charming small towns and encounter Lee’s family, an unexpected romance blossoms. However, their relationship faces challenges as they confront societal expectations and personal struggles that threaten to keep them apart.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Remember the Night yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Remember the Night (1940)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Remember the Night (1940). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Christmas Season, 1930s

The movie is set during the Christmas season, a time often associated with joy and family gatherings. However, this festive backdrop juxtaposes the characters' struggles and dilemmas. The 1930s context highlights societal challenges, reflecting moral dilemmas faced during that era.

Location

New York City, Pennsylvania, Niagara Falls

The story primarily unfolds in New York City, known for its vibrant culture and bustling streets. A significant portion also takes place in the serene landscapes of Pennsylvania, where a surprising overnight adventure occurs, offering a stark contrast. Additionally, Niagara Falls serves as a picturesque backdrop, symbolizing both beauty and the turbulent emotions of the characters.

🏙️ City 🌳 Nature 🏞️ Landscape

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:21

Main Characters – Remember the Night (1940)

Meet the key characters of Remember the Night (1940), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Lee Leander (Sterling Holloway)

Lee Leander is a complex character marked by her resilience and wit. Accused of theft, her tough exterior hides deeper vulnerabilities stemming from her troubled past and lack of familial support. Throughout the story, she demonstrates intelligence and courage, making choices that significantly impact her life and relationships.

👩‍⚖️ Protagonist 💪 Resilience 🎭 Vulnerability

John 'Jack' Sargent (Fred MacMurray)

Jack Sargent is portrayed as a compassionate yet conflicted Assistant District Attorney. Torn between his professional obligations and his feelings for Lee, he embodies a moral struggle that deepens as the story unfolds. His character showcases growth as he confronts his emotions and considers the implications of love against societal expectations.

👨‍⚖️ Protagonist ❤️ Compassion ⚔️ Conflict

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:21

Major Themes – Remember the Night (1940)

Explore the central themes of Remember the Night (1940), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Love and Sacrifice

The theme of love and sacrifice is central to the narrative as Jack grapples with his deep feelings for Lee, while also recognizing the consequences of their relationship on his future. Lee's decision to prioritize Jack's career over her own desires emphasizes the emotional weight of sacrifice. Their love story challenges traditional expectations and presents the complexities of romantic choices amid societal judgment.

⚖️ Justice and Morality

Justice and morality frequently intersect throughout the film as Jack navigates the legal system while being emotionally invested in Lee's fate. The courtroom scenarios critique the difficulties within the justice system, showcasing moral conflicts between professional duty and personal affection. Lee's ultimate decision to plead guilty raises questions about guilt, redemption, and the pursuit of a just outcome.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:21

Unlock the Full Story of Remember the Night

Don't stop at just watching — explore Remember the Night in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Remember the Night is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Remember the Night Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Remember the Night, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Remember the Night Summary

Remember the Night Timeline

Track the full timeline of Remember the Night with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Remember the Night Timeline

Remember the Night Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Remember the Night that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

Remember the Night Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Remember the Night

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Remember the Night: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Remember the Night

Similar Movies to Remember the Night

Discover movies like Remember the Night that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.