Laughter in the Dark is a 1969 British-French drama film directed by Tony Richardson. It is an adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov's 1932 novel of the same name (originally published in Russian as Camera Obscura).
The film stars Nicol Williamson as Albert, a wealthy and respected art critic who becomes infatuated with Margot (Anna Karina), a manipulative young model. Their affair leads to Albert's increasing obsession, professional ruin, and eventual blindness, all while Margot and her former lover, Axel (Jean-Claude Drouot), exploit his vulnerability.
Initially, Orson Welles was slated to direct the film and began shooting in early 1968 with Richard Burton as Albert and Anna Karina as Margot. However, Welles was famously replaced by Richardson due to creative differences and financial disputes, and Nicol Williamson took over the role of Albert.
Laughter in the Dark explores themes of desire, manipulation, obsession, and the destructive nature of relationships. The film's critical reception was mixed upon its release, and it did not achieve significant commercial success.