They Shoot Horses, Don't They?

They Shoot Horses, Don't They?

Year: 1969

Runtime: 129 min

Language: English

Director: Sydney Pollack

Drama

During the Great Depression, a cruel dance marathon host, Rocky, exploits vulnerable contestants hoping to win a substantial cash prize. The competition draws a diverse group, including a former actress struggling to stay relevant, a world-weary sailor, a delicate young woman, and a pregnant teenager. As the grueling marathon stretches into weeks, physical and emotional exhaustion take their toll, and Rocky’s desire for publicity pushes the participants to increasingly desperate measures.

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Timeline – They Shoot Horses, Don't They? (1969)

Trace every key event in They Shoot Horses, Don't They? (1969) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

The Great Depression

The story begins during the bleak era of the Great Depression, which sets a tone of despair and desperation among the characters. Many individuals are seeking any means to survive, leading them to participate in unusual forms of competition for monetary gain.

1930s
2

The Dance Marathon Begins

Robert Syverton arrives at the Santa Monica Pier to find the peculiar atmosphere of a dance marathon in full swing. Contestants are competing fervently for a cash prize of $1,500, desperately trying to catch the attention of the Hollywood elite.

Santa Monica Pier
3

Partnership with Gloria

After Gloria Beatty's previous partner is incapacitated by illness, Robert steps in to form a dance partnership with her. The two find commonality in their struggles, as Gloria's troubled demeanor mirrors Robert's own emotional burdens.

4

Introduction of Other Contestants

The diverse mix of contestants is established, introducing major characters like the ex-sailor Harry Kline and aspiring actress Alice with her actor friend Joel. Each participant brings unique backgrounds that enrich the competitive atmosphere but also heighten the emotional stakes.

5

Rocky's Manipulations Begin

Rocky, the cunning promoter of the event, exploits contestants' vulnerabilities for entertainment value. His manipulation not only adds to the drama of the marathon but also exposes the participants to emotional and physical hardships.

6

Tensions Rise

As the marathon progresses, jealousy and emotional turmoil surface, especially when Rocky steals one of Alice's dresses to create a scandal. Gloria becomes increasingly uneasy about Robert's attention towards Alice, exacerbating the existing friction between the contestants.

7

Harry's Sudden Death

The competition takes a grim turn when Harry dies unexpectedly, highlighting the severe implications of the grueling contest. His death shocks the remaining contestants and serves as a stark reminder of the physical toll imposed by the event.

8

Rocky's Deception after the Death

Rather than allowing the harsh reality of Harry's death to upset the audience, Rocky orchestrates a cover-up. The medics' hurried removal of Harry's body underscores the callous nature of the competition, with profit taking precedence over human life.

9

Alice's Withdrawal

Alice's mental state deteriorates under the mounting pressure, leading her to withdraw for medical attention. In a rare moment of empathy, Rocky extends support to her, but it only highlights the fierce competition that drives people to their breaking points.

10

Partners Reunite

After a series of changes in partnership due to withdrawals, Robert and Gloria are paired again. Their reconnection amid the chaos serves as both a source of strength and an increasing challenge, as they face the marathon's demands together.

11

Rocky's Manipulative Scheme

Rocky devises a scheme to encourage Robert and Gloria to pose as a married couple, aiming to invoke sympathy from potential benefactors. This plan reveals the desperate lengths to which the participants are pushed to secure financial aid amid escalating pressure.

12

Decision to Forfeit

Faced with overwhelming despair and realizing the futility of continuing, Robert and Gloria decide to forfeit the competition. Their decision reflects a broader commentary on the moral degradation and emotional toll exacted by the relentless pursuit of survival in such dire circumstances.

Dance Hall
13

Tragic Revelation

As they leave the dance hall, Gloria reveals her deep emotional anguish, sharing her thoughts of emptiness and her struggle with life. In a poignant moment, she draws a gun, expressing her desire for peace, which leads to a heartbreaking, tragic conclusion.

Santa Monica Pier
14

Robert's Arrest

After Robert complies with Gloria's final wish, authorities swiftly arrive to take him into custody. This shocking turn of events underscores the theme of tragedy that permeates the film, leaving Robert haunted by his choices.

15

The Marathon Continues

In the aftermath of Gloria's death, the marathon trudges on with depleted contestants. The line of participants dwindles, a stark reflection of the human cost behind the facade of competition, as the eyes of the audience remain fixed on the dwindling count.

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 11:52

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Characters, Settings & Themes in They Shoot Horses, Don't They?

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