Dial M for Murder

Dial M for Murder

Year: 1954

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

MysteryThrillerCrime

In the midst of a marriage suffocatingly defined by social expectations, writer Mark Halliday finds himself entangled in a deadly web of blackmail and deceit when he rekindles an old flame with the beautiful Margot Wendice. As husband Tony's desperation to maintain his grip on power turns murderous, Mark must use his wits to unravel the twisted plot and clear Margot's name before it's too late.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Dial M for Murder yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Dial M for Murder (1954)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Dial M for Murder (1954). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1950s

Dial M for Murder is set in the 1950s, a decade marked by social change and the rise of new forms of entertainment. This period is known for its post-war culture, where themes of domestic life, class struggles, and the complexities of human relationships were prevalent in literature and film.

Location

London

The film primarily takes place in London, a bustling metropolis known for its rich history and cultural significance. London is famous for its iconic landmarks, theaters, and vibrant urban life. In this story, specific locations within London, like Chelsea, are key settings that provide a backdrop for the unfolding drama.

🇬🇧 City 🎭 Theatre 🏠 Apartment

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

Main Characters – Dial M for Murder (1954)
Meet the key characters of Dial M for Murder (1954), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Tony Wendice (Ray Milland)

Tony Wendice is a malevolent former tennis player whose charm disguises his cold-hearted nature. He exhibits a calculated mindset as he meticulously plots to murder his wife, driven by jealousy and greed. Despite his outward sophistication, his true colors reveal a ruthless and cunning individual, ready to betray those closest to him.

🕴️ Villain 🎭 Manipulative

Margot Wendice (Grace Kelly)

Margot Wendice is a complex character who finds herself entangled in a web of deceit. Initially perceived as a victim, her strength emerges when faced with danger. Her emotional struggles highlight her torn loyalties between her husband and her former lover, making her a multidimensional figure in the story.

👩‍❤️‍👨 Love 💔 Conflict

Mark Halliday (Robert Cummings)

Mark Halliday is a crime writer and Margot's past love interest, representing an escape from her troubled marriage. His genuine affection for Margot contrasts sharply with Tony's malicious intentions. Mark's moral dilemma regarding revealing their past relationship adds to the story's tension.

🖊️ Writer 💞 Loyalty

Inspector Hubbard (John Williams)

Inspector Hubbard is a determined detective who suspects foul play throughout the investigation. His sharp intuition and attention to detail lead him to uncover the truth behind the murder plot. The inspector’s role in the film highlights the theme of justice and the pursuit of truth amidst deception.

👮 Detective 🧐 Observant

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

Major Themes – Dial M for Murder (1954)
Explore the central themes of Dial M for Murder (1954), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🖤 Betrayal

Betrayal is a central theme in Dial M for Murder, as it examines the impact of secret affairs and hidden motives on relationships. Tony's treachery against Margot reveals the dark side of love fueled by materialism and ambition. The consequences of betrayal escalate as deception intertwines with murder.

⚖️ Justice

The theme of justice is prominent as Margot is wrongfully accused and ultimately convicted of a crime she did not commit. This raises questions about the reliability of evidence and the morality of those seeking justice. The intricate plans of Tony highlight the flaws within the justice system and the thin line between guilt and innocence.

🔪 Deception

Deception weaves through every interaction and plot point, as Tony crafts an elaborate scheme to murder Margot. The manipulation of truth becomes a tool for characters to navigate their desires and fears. The film challenges the audience's perception of reality, as characters often hide their true intentions.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

Similar Movies to Dial M for Murder
Discover movies like Dial M for Murder that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.