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Duel (1971)

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description Duel (1971) Overview

Duel is a 1971 American television thriller directed by Steven Spielberg from a screenplay by Richard Matheson, based on Matheson's short story. Dennis Weaver plays a motorist pursued across isolated California roads by the unseen driver of a tanker truck, with suspense built largely through movement, editing, sound, and the escalating chase. Originally broadcast by ABC, the film was later expanded for theatrical release in some markets and became an important early work in Spielberg's directing career.

help Duel (1971) FAQ

Who directed the 1971 television movie Duel?

Duel was directed by a young Steven Spielberg, marking one of his earliest feature-length directing credits. It was based on a screenplay written by acclaimed author Richard Matheson, who adapted it from his own short story.

What is the basic plot of the movie Duel?

The film follows a terrified motorist named David Mann, played by Dennis Weaver, who is driving across isolated California roads. He is relentlessly pursued and terrorized by the unseen driver of a massive, rusty tanker truck.

Was Duel ever released in theaters?

Although originally aired as an ABC Movie of the Week on television, Duel was so well-received that it was given a theatrical release internationally. Spielberg filmed additional scenes to extend the runtime for its theatrical release.

What is the truck driver's identity in Duel?

The driver of the tanker truck is never actually seen, serving as a relentless, almost supernatural antagonist throughout the film. You only ever catch brief glimpses of his boots or arms, making the vehicle itself the primary villain.

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