Dial M For Murder: An Under The Lens Review

Under the lens takes a deep look at films by focusing in on one or two particular areas of the picture that helped to define it for better or for worse. Spoilers will be included in this review.

Dial M For Murder is a 1954 mystery thriller Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, starring Ray Milland, Grace Kelly, Robert Cummings. The picture follows the story of a tennis player who tries to arrange his wife’s murder after learning of her affair, adapted from the stage play by English playwright Frederick Knott, it’s a thrilling story from a master of suspense.

Under The Lens: Setting and The Cast

Setting: Dial M For Murder is very limited in its locations, and while for most pictures this would hurt its narrative or make the stories slow to a crawl. However, under the masterful direction of Hitchcock and the penmanship of Frederick Knott the plot flies and the viewer is on the edge of one’s seat the whole time. For example, early in the picture, we have an almost 15min conversation between Ray Milland and Anthony Dawson, watching the two masters conversate together is a treat to witness. The picture acts very much like a stage play and it is stronger for it.

The Cast: A picture is made or broken by its cast and Dial M For Murder is stacked with talent. Ray Milland drips with charisma and menace, and Grace Kelly brought to life a character who has a seemingly perfect life only to have that life totally destroyed overnight by a bevy of false accusations and planted evidence. She showcased panic, terror, class, and emotion, this picture helped to cement her as one of the 20th century greatest actresses.

Highlights

The decision to not show the court case and instead focus on Grace Kelly’s face with a voice-over was brilliant and kept the viewer focused on the main characters.

Hitchcock showcased his love of filming from various unorthodox angles which allow us to see the character’s motivations in a different light.

Grace Kelly really showcased the move from character acting to method, which had dominated the industry for decades.

Quotable Quote

Tony Wendice: People don’t commit murder on credit.

Something to think about

Do you like suspense pictures like Dial M For Murder? Where the conversation and dramatic presence create tension?

Conclusion

Dial Me For Murder is not one of Alfred Hitchcock’s most remembered motion pictures which is a pity because it is one of his best. Filled with witty dialogue, showcasing a strong female lead this enclosed space drama showed off the best of Hitchcock’s talents as a filmmaker, its cast is vibrant and its violence shocking yet brief. Its one of the few pictures where the climax happens at the start of its second act and the rest of its run time is its rundown. Any fan of classic cinema and those interested in seeing an early display of method acting will find much to love in this riveting tale.