Stories from the set

The Triumph motorcycle ridden by Marlon Brando is actually his own.

The film is based on the events in the town of Hollister in 1947, when several biker gangs rioted during the annual motorcycle rally.

The American rock band Black Rebel Motorcycle Club is named after the motorcycle club from the film.

Stanley Kramer (1913-2001) hired real bikers. When one of them was asked what exactly they were rebelling against, he replied: "Well, what ya got" — and this slang expression was added to the script.

Lee Marvin (1924-1987) was actually drunk during the filming of some scenes, and his on-screen rivalry with Marlon Brando (1924-2004) extended beyond the set as well.

While preparing for the shoot, Marlon Brando became interested in motorcycles and the corresponding lifestyle again; he diligently practiced his motorcycle riding skills and picked out his wardrobe himself. In addition, the actor spent a considerable amount of time in the company of real bikers, observing how they behaved and talked.