They Drive by Night (1938) | Directed by Arthur B. Woods

They Drive by Night is a British crime drama adapted from the novel *They Drive by Night* by James Curtis. The film follows the bleak and gritty story of a recently released convict who tries to go straight but finds himself pulled back into the underbelly of London's night streets. It paints a portrait of working-class life and crime with documentary-style realism and sharp social observation.

Genre: Crime, Drama

Director: Arthur B. Woods

Arthur B. Woods was a British film director active in the 1930s, known for his efficient direction and solid contributions to British quota quickies. His career was tragically cut short during World War II when he died while serving in the Royal Air Force in 1944. Despite his brief career, Woods left a mark with a handful of well-crafted thrillers and dramas that showed a knack for pacing and atmosphere.

Star Cast

* Emlyn Williams as Shorty Matthews
* Anna Konstam as Molly
* Allan Jeayes as Inspector
* Ronald Shiner in a minor role
* Ernest Butcher
* Joss Ambler

Upon release, *They Drive by Night* was appreciated for its raw and unvarnished look at the British working class and its departure from the more polished crime dramas of the time. Though it remained relatively obscure compared to the more famous 1940 American film of the same name, it has since gained recognition among British film enthusiasts and scholars as an early example of social realism.

Fun Facts

* The film is often confused with the 1940 American film *They Drive by Night*, starring Humphrey Bogart and George Raft, though they share no relation beyond the title.
* Emlyn Williams, who plays the lead role, was also a renowned playwright and screenwriter, best known for writing *Night Must Fall* and *The Corn Is Green*.
* The film’s bleak and atmospheric portrayal of London’s underworld has been compared to later British noir and kitchen-sink dramas of the 1950s and 60s.
* This film is considered a precursor to British neo-noir and has been praised for its ahead-of-its-time depiction of systemic social issues.

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