They Shoot Horses, Don't They?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.