# Ten Things About "The Night of the Hunted" (1980)
"The Night of the Hunted" ("La Nuit des Traquées") is a 1980 French horror film directed by Jean Rollin. Known for its haunting atmosphere and unconventional storytelling, the film has garnered a cult following. Here are ten intriguing facts about this enigmatic movie:
### 1. **Budget Constraints**
"The Night of the Hunted" was made on a shoestring budget of just $40,000. This limited financial backing significantly influenced the film’s production and overall aesthetic.
### 2. **Rapid Production**
The entire film was shot in an astonishingly short span of just ten days. This rapid production schedule demanded intense dedication and quick decision-making from the cast and crew.
### 3. **Adult Film Actors**
In a unique crossover, the film featured several actors from the pornographic industry. Jean Rollin, known for his work in erotic horror, utilized the talents of adult film actors to bring his vision to life.
### 4. **Stormy Shoot**
During filming, a severe storm hit the area. The weather was so intense that the tower of the building where the film was being shot began to sway. This added an unintended layer of tension and realism to the production.
### 5. **Quick Script Development**
Jean Rollin wrote the script for "The Night of the Hunted" in a single day. This expedited writing process was necessary due to the film’s tight budget and rapid shooting schedule.
### 6. **Controversial Climax**
Rollin mentioned in interviews that the climactic ending of the film reminded some viewers of the concentration camps from World War II. This comparison added a layer of historical and emotional depth to the movie's conclusion.
### 7. **Budget Comparison**
The cost of making "The Night of the Hunted" was equivalent to the budget for producing two pornographic films at that time. This comparison highlights the financial challenges and creative constraints Rollin faced.
### 8. **Iconic Glass Tower**
The film prominently features a recently constructed glass tower in Paris. This modern building served as a stark and unsettling backdrop for the movie’s eerie events.
### 9. **Brigitte Lahaie**
While working on a pornographic film, Jean Rollin met actress Brigitte Lahaie. Impressed by her talent, Rollin cast her in "The Night of the Hunted," and she delivered a memorable performance that contributed to the film’s unique atmosphere.
### 10. **Director's Regret**
Despite its cult status, Jean Rollin considered "The Night of the Hunted" a failure. He described it as his worst film, reflecting his personal dissatisfaction with the final product, despite the movie’s lasting impact on fans of the genre.
"The Night of the Hunted" remains a fascinating entry in Jean Rollin’s filmography. Its production quirks and the director’s own ambivalence toward the project contribute to its mystique and enduring appeal. For those interested in unconventional horror and the challenges of low-budget filmmaking, this film offers a compelling case study.
Comments