A veteran British barrister must defend his client in a murder trial that has surprise after surprise.A veteran British barrister must defend his client in a murder trial that has surprise after surprise.A veteran British barrister must defend his client in a murder trial that has surprise after surprise.
- Nominated for 6 Oscars
- 3 wins & 15 nominations total
Patrick Aherne
- Court Officer
- (uncredited)
Don Ames
- Bar Patron
- (uncredited)
Larry Arnold
- Courtroom Spectator
- (uncredited)
Walter Bacon
- Bar Patron
- (uncredited)
Eddie Baker
- Courtroom Spectator
- (uncredited)
Storyline
Did you know
- TriviaCharles Laughton, who could be moody and difficult, was apparently a dream to work with, throwing himself into the role with dedication and delight. Billy Wilder later recalled a day that was set aside just for shooting reaction shots of the jury and courtroom crowd (composed of extras hired only for the day). Normally, the assistant director would read the actors' lines, and the extras would react. However, Laughton, who was fascinated with the whole process of filmmaking, begged to help. So he came in on his day off and read all of the off-camera speeches to the jury members. He not only read his part but also the judge's, the prosecutor's, and even Marlene Dietrich's. According to biographer Maurice Zolotow in his book "Billy Wilder in Hollywood", "it was an exhibition of craftsmanship such as Wilder had never seen. He believes that Charles Laughton had the greatest technical range and power of any actor, man or woman, whom he has known."
- GoofsWhilst the story is set in London, the script contains several Americanisms such as "cot" for bed, "banana peel" for banana skin, "travel bureau" for travel agents, "roll up" for open, "movie" for film and "Scotch" for Scottish. Whilst some may be intentional, it is odd that Sir Wilfrid or Mrs French would use such colloquialisms. Conversely the US-accented Leonard uses the correct UK "quid" with reference to money.
- Quotes
Sir Wilfrid: I am constantly surprised that women's hats do not provoke more murders.
- Crazy creditsAs the end credits appear on screen, an announcer's voice is heard: "The management of this theater suggests that for the greater entertainment of your friends who have not yet seen the picture you will not divulge to anyone the secret of the ending of Witness for the Prosecution."
- ConnectionsFeatured in Marlene (1984)
- SoundtracksI May Never Go Home Anymore
Music by Ralph Arthur Roberts
Lyrics by Jack Brooks
Sung by Marlene Dietrich (uncredited)
Reprised a cappella by Tyrone Power (uncredited)
Featured review
This is one of the best "trial movies" ever made. It's an outstanding film that is just as good today as it was almost 50 years ago when it was released in the theaters. The shocking ending caused quite a stir back then, too.
The only part of the movie I thought looked dated and unrealistic was Tyrone Power's character being able to interrupt the trial with outbursts and not be reprimanded for it. There is no way that would be tolerated, at least today.
Otherwise, it's a pretty solid film with a good cast that includes two fascinating characters played by actors who know how to entertain: Charles Laughton and Marlene Dietrich.
Laughton, who plays Power's defense attorney, grabs the spotlight in the story but Dietrich almost steals the movie in her role as Power's wife. Laughton's dialog is terrific throughout, bringing a number of laughs to this serious film. He's just a joy to watch. Dietrich is even more riveting but just doesn't have anywhere near the same amount of screen time as Laughton.
Not to be overlooked is Elsa Lanchester, playing Laughton's nurse. She, too, demonstrates her comedic talent and significantly adds to the fun of watching this film.
If you like some fine drama, storyline twists, a little humor thrown in and great acting and dialog, this is a classic film to check out.
The only part of the movie I thought looked dated and unrealistic was Tyrone Power's character being able to interrupt the trial with outbursts and not be reprimanded for it. There is no way that would be tolerated, at least today.
Otherwise, it's a pretty solid film with a good cast that includes two fascinating characters played by actors who know how to entertain: Charles Laughton and Marlene Dietrich.
Laughton, who plays Power's defense attorney, grabs the spotlight in the story but Dietrich almost steals the movie in her role as Power's wife. Laughton's dialog is terrific throughout, bringing a number of laughs to this serious film. He's just a joy to watch. Dietrich is even more riveting but just doesn't have anywhere near the same amount of screen time as Laughton.
Not to be overlooked is Elsa Lanchester, playing Laughton's nurse. She, too, demonstrates her comedic talent and significantly adds to the fun of watching this film.
If you like some fine drama, storyline twists, a little humor thrown in and great acting and dialog, this is a classic film to check out.
- ccthemovieman-1
- Nov 7, 2005
- Permalink
Details
- Release date
- Country of origin
- Languages
- Also known as
- Svedok optužbe
- Filming locations
- Production company
- See more company credits at IMDbPro
Box office
- Budget
- $3,000,000 (estimated)
- Gross worldwide
- $7,903
- Runtime1 hour 56 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 1.66 : 1
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