

Home Before Dark
A young woman returns home after being institutionalized in a mental hospital.
Insights
Plot Summary
Charlotte, a 14-year-old girl, is sent to live with her recently widowed father in a New England town. She struggles to adapt to her new life and her father's somewhat bohemian lifestyle. Adding to her distress, she begins to hear strange noises and see peculiar things in the house, leading her to believe it is haunted. Her father dismisses her fears, attributing them to her imagination and grief.
Critical Reception
Home Before Dark received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising Jean Simmons' performance and the film's atmospheric suspense. Some found the plot a bit convoluted, but it was generally seen as an engaging melodrama with a touch of the supernatural.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its suspenseful atmosphere and solid performances, particularly from Jean Simmons.
- Some reviewers found the plot elements to be somewhat predictable or overly melodramatic.
- The film effectively balances domestic drama with elements of mystery and psychological unease.
Google audience: Audience reception data for this older film is limited, but general sentiment points to appreciation for its dramatic storytelling and emotional depth.
Fun Fact
The film was based on the true story of a case that occurred in the 1930s, involving a young girl who believed her new home was haunted by the ghost of a previous owner.
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