Four in the Morning (1965 film)

Four in the Morning is a 1965 British drama film directed by Anthony Simmons. It stars Judi Dench, Ann Lynn, Norman Rodway, and Brian Phelan. The film is notable for its experimental structure and elliptical narrative, focusing on seemingly disconnected characters and incidents in London at approximately four in the morning.

The film intertwines several storylines: a young couple's strained relationship, a brief encounter between a prostitute and a sailor, and the discovery of a body in the River Thames. The narrative is presented in a non-linear fashion, and the connections between the characters and events are often implicit, leaving the viewer to draw their own conclusions.

Four in the Morning is characterized by its minimalist dialogue, atmospheric black and white cinematography, and its exploration of themes such as alienation, loneliness, and the fragility of human relationships. The film is considered a significant example of British New Wave cinema and is particularly remembered for its powerful performances, especially Judi Dench's early role. It won a BAFTA award for Best British Screenplay. The film's title refers not just to the time setting, but also to a sense of quiet desperation and the vulnerabilities experienced during the early hours of the morning.