Dial M for Murder (1954)

Last updated:
September 23, 2024

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Dial M for Murder is a 1954 American crime thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, based on Frederick Knott’s play of the same name. The film stars Ray Milland, Grace Kelly, Robert Cummings, John Williams, and Anthony Dawson. Set in London, the film follows the story of a former tennis player who plots to have his wife murdered to inherit her wealth, only for the plan to go awry, leading to a suspenseful investigation.

The Story Unfolds

The Plot to Murder

Tony Wendice (Ray Milland), a former tennis star, discovers that his wealthy wife, Margot (Grace Kelly), had an affair with American writer Mark Halliday (Robert Cummings). Despite Margot ending the affair and recommitting to Tony, he feels betrayed and devises a plan to murder her to inherit her fortune. Tony blackmails an old acquaintance, Charles Swann (Anthony Dawson), into committing the murder by threatening to expose Swann’s past crimes.

The Murder Attempt

Tony meticulously plans the murder, arranging for Swann to kill Margot while he is out with Mark. He instructs Swann on how to enter the apartment and strangle Margot when she answers a staged phone call. However, the plan goes awry when Margot fights back and kills Swann in self-defense with a pair of scissors.

The Climax and Resolution

The Cover-Up

Tony quickly adapts, manipulating the scene to frame Margot for Swann’s murder. He plants evidence suggesting that Margot had been blackmailed by Swann and killed him deliberately. The police, led by Chief Inspector Hubbard (John Williams), arrest Margot, and she is convicted of murder.

The Investigation

Mark, convinced of Margot’s innocence, collaborates with Inspector Hubbard to find the real culprit. Their investigation uncovers inconsistencies in Tony’s story and behavior. They discover that Tony’s key piece of evidence, a stolen latchkey, is a crucial clue. Hubbard devises a trap to catch Tony.

The Conclusion

The Revelation

In the film’s climax, Hubbard and Mark expose Tony’s deception. They switch the keys and catch Tony in the act of trying to retrieve the hidden key, proving his guilt. Margot is exonerated, and Tony is arrested.

Movie Ending

Dial M for Murder ends with Tony’s arrest and Margot’s exoneration. The intricate plot and suspenseful twists highlight Hitchcock’s mastery of the thriller genre, leaving the audience with a satisfying resolution.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Dial M for Murder.

Type of Movie

Dial M for Murder is a crime thriller that combines elements of mystery, suspense, and drama, focusing on themes of betrayal, manipulation, and justice.

Cast

Ray Milland as Tony Wendice
Grace Kelly as Margot Wendice
Robert Cummings as Mark Halliday
John Williams as Chief Inspector Hubbard
Anthony Dawson as Charles Swann

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Dimitri Tiomkin, whose music enhances the film’s tension and atmosphere.

Filming Locations

Dial M for Murder was primarily filmed on a single set, representing the Wendices’ London apartment. The confined setting contributes to the film’s claustrophobic and suspenseful atmosphere.

Awards and Nominations

Dial M for Murder received critical acclaim and several nominations, including:

Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Actress – Motion Picture Drama (Grace Kelly).

Behind the Scenes Insights

Grace Kelly’s performance as Margot Wendice is one of her most iconic roles, showcasing her talent for playing sophisticated and vulnerable characters.
Hitchcock’s use of 3D technology in the film was innovative at the time, though most audiences saw it in the standard 2D format.
The film closely follows Frederick Knott’s play, maintaining the story’s tension and intricacy.

Inspirations and References

Dial M for Murder is based on Frederick Knott’s successful stage play, which retains much of the original dialogue and plot structure. Hitchcock’s adaptation emphasizes visual storytelling and suspense.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Dial M for Murder closely follows the original script. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film is a faithful adaptation of Frederick Knott’s play, with minimal changes to the plot and dialogue. The confined setting and focus on character interactions are preserved in the film.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

Tony’s detailed explanation of the murder plan to Swann.
Margot’s struggle with Swann and her use of scissors in self-defense.
Inspector Hubbard’s discovery of the key and the subsequent trap for Tony.
The final revelation of Tony’s guilt and his arrest.

Iconic Quotes

“People don’t commit murder on credit.” – Tony Wendice
“A murder isn’t a murder unless someone is dead.” – Tony Wendice
“If I were you, I’d go out and buy myself a new hat.” – Chief Inspector Hubbard

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

Hitchcock’s signature cameo appears early in the film during a reunion photograph.
The film’s use of color and lighting enhances the suspense, with shadow and light playing significant roles in creating mood and tension.

Trivia

The film’s budget was approximately $1.4 million, and it grossed over $6 million worldwide.
Dial M for Murder was initially released in 3D, although it is most commonly seen in 2D.
John Williams reprised his role as Chief Inspector Hubbard from the original Broadway production.

Why Watch?

Dial M for Murder offers a masterclass in suspense and narrative intricacy, featuring standout performances, particularly by Ray Milland and Grace Kelly, and expert direction by Alfred Hitchcock. Its blend of tension, clever plotting, and character dynamics makes it a must-watch for fans of classic thrillers and Hitchcock’s work.

Director’s Other Movies

Alfred Hitchcock also directed: