Night Must Fall (1937 film)
Night Must Fall is a 1937 American psychological thriller film directed by Richard Thorpe and starring Robert Montgomery, Rosalind Russell, and Dame May Whitty. It is adapted from the 1935 play of the same name by Emlyn Williams, who also starred in the original Broadway production.
The film tells the story of Danny, a charming but sinister bellhop who insinuates himself into the lives of a wealthy, elderly woman named Mrs. Bramson and her niece, Olivia. Danny carries with him a mysterious hatbox that he keeps carefully guarded, leading to suspicion and mounting tension as Olivia becomes increasingly uneasy about his presence. Mrs. Bramson, however, is captivated by Danny's flattery and attention.
The plot thickens with the disappearance of a local girl, prompting an investigation that casts suspicion on Danny. The film explores themes of manipulation, class differences, and the hidden darkness that can lurk beneath a seemingly charming facade.
Robert Montgomery received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal of Danny. The film was a critical and commercial success and is considered a classic of the thriller genre. It was remade in 1964 with Albert Finney in the role of Danny, and again in 2003 with Jonathan Rhys Meyers.