Murder by Death

Murder by Death

Year: 1976

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

MysteryThrillerComedyCrime

In this wacky whodunit, a motley crew of eccentric private eyes converges on Lionel Twain's foreboding castle, where they're challenged to solve a murder mystery. But when the game takes an unexpected turn with the sudden demise of Twain's blind butler, Bensonmum, the stakes skyrocket and these clever detectives must outwit each other to claim the $1 million prize.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Murder by Death (1976)
Trace every key event in Murder by Death (1976) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Arrival at the Mansion

Five esteemed detectives and their companions arrive at Lionel Twain's lavish mansion as the evening sun sets. They sense the tension in the air, unaware that a thrilling challenge awaits them later that night.

Evening Lionel Twain's Mansion
2

Dinner and the Challenge Announcement

As the detectives gather for dinner, their enigmatic host entertains them with grandiose tales of his criminologist prowess. The true nature of their gathering is revealed: a murder will take place at midnight, with a reward of $1 million for the detective who can solve it.

Night Lionel Twain's Mansion
3

Discovery of Bensonmum's Body

Tragedy strikes when the detectives find Jamessir Bensonmum's lifeless body, mysteriously bearing twelve fatal knife wounds. This shocking event intensifies the atmosphere and the stakes of their deadly game.

Midnight Lionel Twain's Mansion
4

The Mannequin Revelation

As the investigation unfolds, the detectives discover that what they believed to be the cook, Yetta, is just an animated mannequin, now found stored in a crate. This revelation adds a layer of deception to their dire circumstances.

5

The Shift in Atmosphere

With suspicions brewing among the detectives, the friendly rivalry transforms into tension-filled accusations. Each detective begins suspecting another of harboring motives against Twain, escalating the stakes of their grim situation.

Late Night Lionel Twain's Mansion
6

The Arrival of Deadly Challenges

After retiring to their guest rooms, the detectives face perilous trials designed to eliminate them. Deadly challenges such as a venomous snake, a searing ceiling, and toxic fumes force them to fight to survive throughout the night.

Night Lionel Twain's Mansion
7

Survival Through Trials

Miraculously, all detectives endure the nightmarish trials and survive until morning. They gather in the office to share their theories about the previous night's terrifying events, only to find themselves still enmeshed in a deadly game.

Morning Lionel Twain's Mansion
8

The Revelation of Bensonmum

In a shocking twist, Jamessir Bensonmum reappears alive and sighted, revealing himself as the mastermind behind the entire affair. The detectives come to realize they have been mere pawns in an elaborate game of strategy.

Morning Lionel Twain's Mansion
9

Bensonmum's Betrayal

The detectives accuse Bensonmum of being an ally of Twain, leading to a dramatic confrontation. As tensions rise, they uncover that their oversight has played right into the hands of the architect of their trials.

Morning Lionel Twain's Mansion
10

Twain Reveals Himself

With a flourish, Bensonmum sheds his disguise, revealing Lionel Twain himself. Twain mockingly critiques the detectives and narrators for their failure to solve the mystery, revealing the truth of their dire situation.

Morning Lionel Twain's Mansion
11

Disillusionment of the Detectives

Defeated, the detectives leave the mansion empty-handed, their dreams of the million-dollar prize shattered. Their quest turns sour as they reflect on their experiences with a growing sense of disillusionment.

Morning Lionel Twain's Mansion
12

Wang's Dark Humor

As the detectives discussed their failure, Wang's sardonic remark about the missing murder injected dark humor into the dismal atmosphere. His quip underscores the absurdities they faced during the night.

Morning
13

Twain's Final Transformation

In a final twist, Twain unveils the enigmatic Yetta once more, showcasing her sinister presence. As she lights a cigarette, her maniacal laughter fills the air, leaving an ominous atmosphere lingering as the scene fades.

Morning Lionel Twain's Mansion

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 18:14

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