A title that perfectly sums up Billy Wilder’s courtroom drama as Leonard Vole (Tyrone Power – Nightmare Alley, A Yank in the RAF) is charged with murder – with his wife the unexpected star witness for the prosecution.
A war veteran with a German wife (Marlene Dietrich), Vole struggles financially as he befriends wealthy widow, Emily French (Norma Varden – Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, The Sound of Music). Her sudden death throws him under suspicion. Convinced of Vole’s innocence, renowned barrister Sir Wilfred Robarts (a splendidly blustering Charles Laughton – Spartacus, Mutiny on the Bounty) takes on the case.
Adapted from the stage play by Agatha Christie, Wilder’s screenplay has more oomph and comedy resulting in a riveting drama as twist after twist are introduced.
Nominated for 6 Oscars in 1958 including best film, director, actor (Laughton), supporting actress (Elsa Lanchester).
Rating: 77%
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