Wait Until Dark

Wait Until Dark

Year: 1967

Runtime: 108 min

Language: English

Director: Terence Young

ThrillerHorror

In the midst of darkness, a sinister plot unfolds when a doll's innocent appearance belies its deadly contents. As a blind woman is left defenseless at home, a ruthless gang closes in to reclaim their heroin stash. A cat-and-mouse game ensues, pitting wits and determination against calculated cruelty.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Wait Until Dark (1967)
Trace every key event in Wait Until Dark (1967) 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

Lisa Arrives in New York City

As Lisa steps off her flight from Montreal to New York City, she feels an immediate wave of anxiety washing over her. The hustle and bustle of the airport only amplifies her unease as she senses a man watching her closely, instilling a deep sense of dread.

New York City Airport
2

Lisa Hides the Heroin

In an effort to protect her illicit cargo, a stash of heroin concealed within an antique doll, Lisa discreetly hands it over to Sam Hendrix, a professional photographer. This act is motivated by her hope that he will safeguard it until the danger passes, although she remains tense and apprehensive.

New York City Airport
3

The Abduction

Before Lisa can feel any sense of security, she is abruptly seized by the mysterious man, who drags her away from the scene. This moment marks the beginning of a deadly game, leaving the fate of the hidden doll uncertain.

New York City Airport
4

Con Artists Enter the Scene

Days later, con artists Mike Talman and Carlino mistakenly invade Sam and Susy's apartment, believing they are involved in their scheme. Unbeknownst to them, they have walked into a dangerous trap orchestrated by Harry Roat, the man who had been stalking Lisa.

Sam and Susy's Apartment
5

Discovery of Lisa's Body

While rummaging through the apartment, Mike and Carlino inadvertently discover Lisa's lifeless body. This horrifying revelation leads them into reluctant compliance with Roat, who forces them to assist in disposing of her corpse while simultaneously searching for the hidden doll.

Sam and Susy's Apartment
6

The Con Scheme Unfolds

As Sam goes about his photography assignment, the trio of conmen begins their meticulously planned scheme. They exploit Susy's blindness, manipulating her and creating a web of deceit to locate the hidden doll, all while maintaining the facade of innocence.

7

Gloria's Innocent Visit

A young girl named Gloria from upstairs innocently enters Susy's apartment to return a borrowed doll. Her seemingly minor action becomes pivotal as she shares news of Lisa's tragic fate, igniting a series of events that further complicate the situation.

Susy's Apartment
8

Susy's Clever Defense

Realizing the true intentions of Mike and Carlino, Susy cleverly hides the doll in Sam's photography studio. She becomes aware of the danger that the conmen pose and instructs Gloria to wait for her husband at the bus station to avoid further complications.

Photography Studio
9

Susy Gears Up for Confrontation

As Roat and his accomplices leave, Susy prepares to defend herself against the menace they represent. She begins to shatter the lightbulbs in her apartment, illuminating only one safelight that symbolizes her mental fortitude for the impending confrontation.

Susy's Apartment
10

Tension Mounts

Mike confronts Susy, who now stands defiantly against their threats, refusing to give up the doll. The stakes escalate when Roat decides to eliminate Carlino, showcasing his brutal nature, while Mike's fate becomes increasingly uncertain.

Susy's Apartment
11

Susy Strikes Back

When faced with Roat's growing threats and manipulative tactics, Susy displays extraordinary bravery. Using a chemical agent, she plunges Roat and the room into darkness, momentarily disorienting her dangerous adversary.

Susy's Apartment
12

The Climax

As Roat attempts to navigate the darkness, Susy seizes the moment to retrieve the doll and reluctantly hands it to him. However, her true intentions come to light when she strikes Roat down, showcasing her persistence and quick-thinking.

Susy's Apartment
13

Desperate Escape

Fleeing the scene, Susy discovers that the front door is locked with an unyielding chain, leaving her desperate to find another way out. Just as she considers the kitchen window, an ominous lunge from Roat complicates her escape.

Susy's Apartment
14

Police Arrive

As the suspense reaches its peak, the sound of sirens signals the imminent arrival of Sam and Gloria, accompanied by the police. They burst onto the scene to find a shaken yet unharmed Susy hiding, while Roat lies motionless, marking a victorious moment for her.

Susy's Apartment

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 10:28

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