See How They Run

In 1953 London, the iconic Agatha Christie play, _The Mousetrap_, prepares to celebrate its 100th performance. The atmosphere is buzzing with excitement as audiences gather to witness a momentous event in theatrical history.

Disreputable American director Leo Köpernick is brought on by producer John Woolf for the film adaptation of _The Mousetrap_. His controversial reputation precedes him, raising concerns among the cast and crew.

A scandal erupts when Köpernick gets into a heated altercation with leading actress Sheila Sim. The confrontation escalates, drawing the attention of Sheila's husband, Richard Attenborough, leading to a physical brawl backstage.

After the altercation, the atmosphere takes a darker turn when Köpernick is mysteriously murdered backstage by an unknown assailant. His death sends shockwaves through the cast and crew, setting off a murder investigation.

Inspector Stoppard and the eager Constable Stalker are assigned to investigate Köpernick's murder. They soon realize that every person in the theatre is a potential suspect, complicating their search for the truth.

The detective duo investigates Köpernick's hotel room at the Savoy, where they discover an intriguing address book filled with women's names. This unexpected find raises questions about Köpernick's personal life and connections.

Stoppard and Stalker learn from the hotel manager about a heated dispute between Köpernick and screenwriter Mervyn Cocker-Norris. The argument revolved around Köpernick's vision for an action-packed film ending, adding layers to the investigation.

The investigation leads them to question producer John Woolf, who reveals that Köpernick blackmailed him after discovering his affair with his assistant, Ann. This revelation raises further suspicions regarding Woolf's involvement.

During an evening at a pub, Stoppard confides in Stalker about his troubled past, revealing that his wife left him after having a child with another man. This personal disclosure hints at deeper connections within the investigation.

While attending a performance of _The Mousetrap_, chaos ensues when Mervyn is brutally murdered by an unidentified assailant. Stalker mistakenly knocks Stoppard unconscious in her attempt to apprehend what she believes to be the murderer.

Stoppard wakes up in a holding cell to find himself accused of the murders by Stalker and Commissioner Scott. The situation becomes dire for him as he races against time to prove his innocence.

Stalker finds Joyce, the mother of Köpernick's son, who confirms that she is not Stoppard's ex-wife, ultimately clearing his name. Joyce's knowledge of a peculiar accent overheard at the time of the murders becomes a critical clue.

The climax unfolds at Agatha Christie's residence in Wallingford when Dennis holds everyone at gunpoint. The confrontation reveals his troubled past linked to the play's inspiration, culminating in a violent showdown.

In the chaos that ensues, Stalker displays incredible bravery, risking her life to bring justice to the forefront. Stoppard confronts Dennis, leading to a tense resolution where he is injured but ultimately triumphant.

As the investigation concludes, Stalker passes her sergeant's exams while Stoppard receives the King's Police and Fire Services Medal. They rekindle their bond and attend another performance of _The Mousetrap_, symbolizing resilience and hope.