The Great Race

The Great Race

Year: 1965

Runtime: 160 min

Language: english

Director: Blake Edwards

ActionAdventureSportComedyRomanceWesternFamily

A group of celebrated drivers compete in a perilous race across the globe, traveling from New York to Paris. The contest pits the charismatic and daring Leslie, portrayed by Tony Curtis, against the calculating and determined Professor Fate, played by Jack Lemmon. Their rivalry extends beyond speed, encompassing clever tactics and a clash of personalities as they vie for victory in this high-stakes adventure.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Great Race (1965)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Great Race (1965). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early automobile era

The movie is set during the early days of automobile manufacturing, a pivotal time when design and engineering were rapidly evolving. This era is marked by a burgeoning fascination with speed and competition, as daring adventurers and stylish racers sought glory on the open roads, epitomizing a cultural shift towards modernity and innovation.

Location

Global motor car race, 18th-century England

The story unfolds across various global locations as racers compete in a high-stakes motor car race, showcasing the early 20th-century allure of automobile innovation. The contrasting settings emphasize the juxtaposition between elegance and chaos, with 18th-century England serving as a backdrop for character interactions and conflicts steeped in tradition.

🌍 Global 🏎️ Racing 🇬🇧 England

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:40

Main Characters – The Great Race (1965)

Meet the key characters of The Great Race (1965), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Tony Curtis

Tony Curtis plays a gentleman adventurer, characterized by impeccable manners and a stylish demeanor. He embodies chivalry, showing kindness even amidst fierce competition, which highlights his virtuous nature. His elegant appearance and dedication to the race accentuate the film's themes of honor and bravery.

🕴️ Gentleman 🚗 Enthusiast 🤝 Chivalry

Jack Lemmon

Jack Lemmon portrays a cunning antagonist, cleverly designed with a flair for villainy. His character, equipped with a bizarre vehicle filled with gadgets, showcases a comedic yet sinister quality. The humorous foil to Curtis, he embodies the chaos and competition that drives the narrative.

🖤 Villain 🚙 Gadgeteer 💼 Antagonist

Keenan Wynn

Keenan Wynn plays a multifaceted aide, combining charm with a comic portrayal of an English butler. His loyalty contrasts with his outdated views on women, providing humor and depth to his character. He adds a layer of comedic tension as he navigates the bizarre situations of the race.

🤵 Butler 🎭 Comic relief 🤔 Misogynistic

Natalie Wood

Natalie Wood shines as a determined suffragette, embodying the fight for women's rights with her strong-willed nature. Her exquisite Victorian appearance juxtaposes her modern ambitions, making her character compelling and inspirational as she seeks equality in the journalism field.

👗 Suffragette 📰 Reporter 🚺 Empowerment

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:40

Major Themes – The Great Race (1965)

Explore the central themes of The Great Race (1965), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🏁 Competition

The theme of competition drives the narrative as the characters engage in a thrilling race, each with unique motivations. This rivalry not only showcases their individual talents but also highlights the contrasts between good and evil, ambition versus morality, and the pursuit of honor amidst chaos.

👩‍🎤 Female Empowerment

Natalie Wood's character embodies the spirit of female empowerment as she defies societal norms to pursue a career in journalism. Her bold actions challenge gender roles of the time, illustrating the struggle for equality and the importance of female voices in a male-dominated world.

🎭 Slapstick Comedy

The film celebrates slapstick comedy, drawing inspiration from silent film legends. Through exaggerated physical humor and whimsical antics, it serves as a nostalgic reminder of the art of visual storytelling, engaging audiences in laughter and heartwarming moments.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:40

Unlock the Full Story of The Great Race

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Great Race 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 The Great Race is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Great Race Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Great Race, 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.

The Great Race Summary

The Great Race Timeline

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

The Great Race Timeline

More About The Great Race

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Great Race: 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 The Great Race

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