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They Live by Night 1949

Wrongfully accused Bowie Bowers escapes from prison with the help of two accomplices, embarking on a journey fraught with danger and moral dilemmas. He finds unexpected comfort and a tender connection with Keechie, the naive niece of his accomplice Chickamaw. As Bowie struggles to reconcile his past actions with a desire for a better future, he must confront the choices that define him and determine what he’s willing to risk for a chance at freedom and a life beyond crime.

Wrongfully accused Bowie Bowers escapes from prison with the help of two accomplices, embarking on a journey fraught with danger and moral dilemmas. He finds unexpected comfort and a tender connection with Keechie, the naive niece of his accomplice Chickamaw. As Bowie struggles to reconcile his past actions with a desire for a better future, he must confront the choices that define him and determine what he’s willing to risk for a chance at freedom and a life beyond crime.

Does They Live by Night have end credit scenes?

No!

They Live by Night does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of They Live by Night

Explore the complete cast of They Live by Night, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


Ratings and Reviews for They Live by Night

See how They Live by Night is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where They Live by Night stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Metacritic

82

Metascore

8.0

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

%

TOMATOMETER

review

0%

User Score

IMDb

7.4 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

69

%

User Score

Take the Ultimate They Live by Night Movie Quiz

Challenge your knowledge of They Live by Night with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.


They Live by Night Quiz: Test your knowledge on the classic film 'They Live by Night' and its unforgettable characters and plot.

Who are the two main characters that begin a connection in the film?

Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for They Live by Night

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Read the complete plot summary of They Live by Night, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.


As the tale unfolds, we are first introduced to Keechie, portrayed by Cathy O’Donnell, and Bowie, played by Farley Granger. Their story begins with the thought-provoking words: > “This boy… and this girl… were never properly introduced to the world we live in.”

The narrative quickly shifts to an exhilarating scene featuring Chickamaw, depicted by Howard Da Silva, at the wheel of a fast-moving car. Suddenly, chaos erupts when a tire blows out, prompting T-Dub—brought to life by Jay C. Flippen—and Bowie to escape on foot across a vast field. They have just successfully executed a bank heist, securing a substantial sum meant for financing their next escapade.

On their journey, they stumble across a quaint ranch where Bowie encounters Keechie. The chemistry between them is palpable as they share their dreams of a better future, revealing their naive but heartfelt aspirations. However, fate takes a turn when Bowie suffers an injury while driving—an incident that leads Keechie to care for him tenderly, thereby deepening their bond.

As the two adventurers navigate through back roads and secluded motels, their love blossoms amidst the tension of dodging the authorities. With a daring plan to utilize the bank’s ill-gotten funds, they plot their escape while grappling with the looming threat of capture. Their journey becomes not just about evading the law, but about a profound connection that paints their uncertain future with hope and desire.

Uncover the Details: Timeline, Characters, Themes, and Beyond!

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for They Live by Night

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Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from They Live by Night. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


They Live by Night Trailer 1949 Film Noir

Imogen Sara Smith on THEY LIVE BY NIGHT and the Myth of the American Open Road

They Live by Night (1/10) Movie CLIP - Prison Break (1948) HD

Cars Featured in They Live by Night

See 18 more

Explore all cars featured in They Live by Night, including their makes, models, scenes they appear in, and their significance to the plot. A must-read for car enthusiasts and movie buffs alike.


Buick

1941

Roadmaster

Cadillac

1937

Cadillac

1936

Series 60

Cadillac

1941

Series 62 Convertible

Chevrolet

1937

Master De Luxe

Chevrolet

1938

Master De Luxe

Dodge

1933

Ford

1946

Ford

1947

De Luxe

Ford

1929

Model A

They Live by Night Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


lovers on the lampet dogsingingchristmas treesweet potato piefugitivedouble crossshot to deathon the runpolice ambushsetting car on firepregnant wifeconvertible automobilemarriage ceremonychristmas presentframed for murderdeath of protagonistfalse accusationwatch as a giftguilty consciencehorseback ridinghusband wife relationshippolice informermarried by justice of the peaceuncle niece relationshiplove notewristwatchchristmaswomanlovecriminal gangbrother in law sister in law relationshipdeath of policeman23 year old manalcoholiccarjackingjealousylouisianacop killerjazz combosongone eyed mancigarette smokingcasing a robberyabductionunhappy endinggoodbye notedownbeat endingprisonerrobbery

They Live by Night Other Names and Titles

Explore the various alternative titles, translations, and other names used for They Live by Night across different regions and languages. Understand how the film is marketed and recognized worldwide.


Amarga Esperança Im Schatten der Nacht Vivre la nuit Les amants de la nuit 그들은 밤에 산다 Les Amants de la nuit La donna del bandito Sie leben bei Nacht Los amantes de la noche 夜逃鸳鸯 Els amants de la nit Они живут по ночам Gece Yaşarlar Oni żyją w nocy 夜逃鴛鴦 Kärlek till döds

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Browse a curated list of movies similar in genre, tone, characters, or story structure. Discover new titles like the one you're watching, perfect for fans of related plots, vibes, or cinematic styles.


Other Names for They Live by Night

Explore the alternate titles, translations, and working names for They Live by Night. Learn how the film is known in different regions, languages, and releases, and discover the variations that reflect its cultural reach and marketing choices.


Amarga Esperança Im Schatten der Nacht Vivre la nuit Les amants de la nuit 그들은 밤에 산다 Les Amants de la nuit La donna del bandito Sie leben bei Nacht Los amantes de la noche 夜逃鸳鸯 Els amants de la nit Они живут по ночам Gece Yaşarlar Oni żyją w nocy 夜逃鴛鴦 Kärlek till döds

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