
Cool Hand Luke is a 1967 American prison drama film directed by Stuart Rosenberg and starring Paul Newman in the lead role. The film is widely regarded as a classic of American cinema and has become an enduring cultural touchstone. But despite its status, there are still plenty of fascinating facts about the movie that are not widely known. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the car wash scene and other interesting tidbits about Cool Hand Luke.
- The Car Wash Scene
One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is the car wash scene, in which the prisoners are forced to wash a line of cars while being sprayed with high-pressure hoses. The scene was shot on a hot summer day in California, and the actors were genuinely drenched with water. According to director Stuart Rosenberg, the scene was intended to be a metaphor for the way the prisoners were being “washed clean” of their sins.
- Paul Newman’s Egg Eating
Paul Newman’s character, Luke, famously eats 50 hard-boiled eggs in one hour as part of a bet with his fellow inmates. But did you know that Newman actually ate the eggs on camera? The actor reportedly ate eight to ten eggs per take and ended up consuming around 30 eggs during the filming of the scene.
- The Real “Cool Hand” Luke
The character of Luke was inspired by a real-life prisoner named Luke Jackson, who was known for his rebellious nature and refusal to conform to prison life. The real Luke was eventually paroled from prison, but died a few years later in a bar fight. In the movie, Newman’s character is also shown as a free spirit who refuses to be broken by the system.
- The Role of Dragline
George Kennedy won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Dragline, Luke’s chief antagonist-turned-friend in the movie. But did you know that Kennedy was not the first choice for the role? The part was initially offered to Lee Marvin, who turned it down. Kennedy was eventually cast after impressing the filmmakers with his audition.
- The Music of Cool Hand Luke
The movie’s score was composed by Lalo Schifrin, who is perhaps best known for his work on the Mission: Impossible television series. The soundtrack features a memorable theme that is often associated with the film. Interestingly, the score also includes a version of the hymn “Just a Closer Walk with Thee,” which is sung by the prisoners during a church scene.
- The Box Scene
The famous “box” scene, in which Luke is punished by being locked in a tiny, sweltering box, was actually shot on location in Stockton, California. The scene was so intense that several of the actors on set fainted from the extreme heat.
Finally, Cool Hand Luke is a film that has stood the test of time, thanks in no small part to the memorable performances of its cast and crew. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the movie, these fascinating facts are sure to deepen your appreciation for this classic piece of cinema.