The Shadow on the Window

The Shadow on the Window

Year: 1957

Runtime: 76 mins

Language: English

Director: William Asher

CrimeDrama

After three delinquents murder a prosperous farmer at an isolated farmhouse, the victim’s secretary becomes their hostage while her young son falls into shock. As the police close in, the boy must regain his composure quickly to aid the investigation and help his father rescue his mother before time runs out.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Shadow on the Window 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 – The Shadow on the Window (1957)

Trace every key event in The Shadow on the Window (1957) 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

Petey Witnesses His Mother in Danger

Young Petey sees his mother, Linda, being terrorized by three thugs. This traumatic event causes him to become overwhelmed and wander off in shock. The incident takes place at their home and marks the beginning of a series of tense events.

Home
2

Petey is Found by Truck Drivers

Petey is discovered wandering alone by truck drivers who take him to the police headquarters. He is unable to recognize his father or explain what happened, indicating his shock and trauma. This moment transitions him into police custody for further investigation.

Police headquarters
3

Revelation of Linda's Kidnapping

At the police station, Linda is identified as being held hostage by the three young criminals, Joey, Gil, and Jess. They are barricaded in Canfield's house, with Linda as their hostage after a robbery gone wrong. The criminals are tense and planning to decide her fate.

Canfield's house
4

The Thugs' Conflicts and Attempts to Kill Linda

The criminals argue about whether to kill Linda, believing she is the only eyewitness. They remain suspicious and untrusting, with tension mounting as they consider their options. Meanwhile, Canfield's niece and her husband visit, mistakenly thinking he is with another woman.

Canfield's house
5

Gil Retrieves a Gun and Faces Police

Gil sneaks away to retrieve a weapon from his mother's apartment. During this time, police arrive in the vicinity. Gil runs from the police, exchanges gunfire with Officer Tony Atlas, and is ultimately shot and killed, with Linda's wallet found in his pocket.

Apartment and vicinity
6

Police Track Down Petey’s Location

Using information from truck drivers, the police narrow down Petey's location to a specific area. They find a tractor and a stolen toy cowboy gun, indicating Petey’s proximity. This helps them plan the raid on the criminals' hideout.

Rural area with tractor
7

Police Siege and Discovery of the Crime Scene

Police surround the house where the criminals are hiding. Upon entering, they discover Canfield's dead body and find Joey also deceased. The scene reveals a struggle for a gun, which Jess had upstairs, and marks the climax of the confrontation.

Criminal's house
8

Confrontation with Jess and Linda's Disarmament

Jess holds Linda at gunpoint in a tense standoff. Officer Tony Atlas manages to disarm Jess, preventing further harm. The confrontation highlights the dangers faced by Linda and the police's efforts to ensure her safety.

Criminal's house
9

Petey Recognizes His Mother

At the sight of his mother alive and safe, Petey emerges from his shock. His recognition signifies a turning point as he reconnects emotionally with Linda after the traumatic sequence of events.

Criminal's house
10

Resolution and Aftermath

With the criminals apprehended and Linda rescued, the tense ordeal concludes. Petey begins to recover from his trauma, and the family reunites, emphasizing themes of rescue, family bonds, and overcoming trauma.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:14

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Unlock the Full Story of The Shadow on the Window

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The Shadow on the Window Summary

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The Shadow on the Window Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Shadow on the Window

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape The Shadow on the Window. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Shadow on the Window

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The Shadow on the Window Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Shadow on the Window

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