Witness for the Prosecution (1957)

Director: Billy Wilder
Starring: Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich, Charles Laughton

Synopsis:
A barrister who has recently come out of a coma takes on a murder case involving a rich widow, a gold-digging veteran and his German wife.

Impressions:
When I heard the praises heaped on this film, I jumped on the opportunity to see it for myself. Some people acclaim this as the best courtroom drama put to film. It's definitely a strong contender, right up there with another favorite of mine, Anatomy of a Murder. This is an incredibly well-written and clever story. Charles Laughton is a treat as the cantankerous but dedicated Sir Wilfrid and his antagonism with nurse Miss Plimsoll (played by Laughton's wife Elsa Lanchester, which probably helps explain the chemistry). Tyrone Power takes an interesting turn, playing up his usual charm but also breaking down dramatically at tense points. (Also, due to his untimely death, this is his last film role, but at least his career ends on a high point.) Marlene Dietrich plays the amazingly icy Christine (but without spoiling too much, just wait to see that icy facade melt). If you have any interest in courtroom dramas whatsoever, you absolutely have to watch this one. You owe it to yourself to experience it for yourself. The defense rests.

Rating:
Own It