The Case of the Frightened Lady
The Case of the Frightened Lady

Movie spotlight

The Case of the Frightened Lady

1940
Movie
81 min
English

A classic British thriller set in a sinister old house, based on a story by Edgar Wallace.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: George KingGenres: Mystery, Crime, Thriller

Plot Summary

Inspector Middleton is called to a remote country estate to investigate the murder of Lord Lebanon. The victim's family is eccentric and secretive, with a history of mental illness and a seemingly frightened young woman who appears to be the prime suspect. As Middleton delves deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit, hidden motives, and a shocking truth behind the 'frightened lady'.

Critical Reception

The film was met with generally positive reviews for its atmospheric mystery and performances, though some found the plot convoluted. It's considered a solid entry in the British crime genre of the era.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful atmosphere and intriguing plot.

  • Appreciated for its strong ensemble cast, particularly Gladys Cooper.

  • Some critics noted a slightly predictable resolution.

Google audience: Audience reception for this older film is difficult to gauge through modern platforms. However, historical reviews suggest it was seen as an effective and engaging mystery thriller for its time.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the play of the same name by Edgar Wallace, a prolific and popular crime novelist and playwright.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

When the chauffeur to "Lady Lebanon" (Helen Haye) is found strangled with one of her expensive silk scarves, Scotland Yard detective "Tanner" (George Merritt) and his slightly goofy sidekick "Totty" (Ronald Shiner) descend on her country pi...