Witness for the Prosecution

Witness for the Prosecution

Year: 1958

Runtime: 116 min

Language: English

Director: Billy Wilder

DramaMysteryThrillerCrime

As charismatic lawyer Sir Wilfrid Robarts defends Leonard Vole against murder charges, the case unfolds with unexpected twists. Leonard's seemingly ironclad alibi crumbles when his estranged wife, Christine, takes the stand, revealing a complex web of secrets and deceit. The truth behind Leonard's innocence becomes increasingly shrouded in mystery.

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Timeline & Setting – Witness for the Prosecution (1958)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Witness for the Prosecution (1958). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Post-World War II

The movie is set in the aftermath of World War II, a period marked by social and economic upheaval as nations began to rebuild. This time was characterized by a sense of uncertainty, reflecting the turmoil in people's lives and relationships as they navigated the complexities of trust and betrayal.

Location

London

London serves as the backdrop for this tense murder trial. Known for its rich history and complex legal system, the city embodies the juxtaposition of post-war recovery and societal intrigue. The courtroom, a key setting in the movie, represents the struggle for justice amid personal betrayal and deception.

🏙️ City ⚖️ Courtroom

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:24

Main Characters – Witness for the Prosecution (1958)
Meet the key characters of Witness for the Prosecution (1958), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Leonard Vole

Leonard Vole is a key figure caught in a web of murder accusations. His charm and apparent innocence come into question when substantial evidence suggests he stands to gain from a wealthy widow's demise. As the narrative unfolds, his character reveals a more complex morality that complicates viewers' sympathies.

🕵️‍♂️ Accused 🎩 Charismatic

Sir Wilfred Robarts

Sir Wilfred Robarts is a seasoned lawyer who, despite his health issues, dives headfirst into a challenging defense. His intelligence and determination shine through as he navigates the courtroom complexities, but his instincts about truth and reliability are tested when faced with unexpected evidence.

⚖️ Lawyer 🚑 Determined

Mrs. Christine Vole

Christine Vole is a fascinating yet enigmatic character whose actions drive much of the plot's tension. Her initially supportive demeanor shifts dramatically when she chooses to betray her husband on the stand. Her desperate choices reveal a struggle for autonomy and complicate her motivations deeply.

💔 Betrayed 🎭 Complex

Miss Plimsoll

Miss Plimsoll is Sir Wilfred's dedicated nurse who cares deeply for her employer. Her loyalty shines through as she takes on the challenge of aiding Christine in the aftermath of the trial. Her character embodies the moral challenges faced by those close to the morally ambiguous characters.

👩‍⚕️ Nurse 💪 Loyal

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:24

Major Themes – Witness for the Prosecution (1958)
Explore the central themes of Witness for the Prosecution (1958), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

Justice is a central theme explored through the courtroom drama. The film delves into the intricacies of the legal system and the moral dilemmas faced by those seeking the truth. It questions the reliability of evidence and the lengths individuals will go to protect or condemn their loved ones.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal looms large as the characters' relationships unravel throughout the narrative. Christine's actions exemplify the destructive power of deceit, as her conflicting loyalties lead to catastrophic consequences. The theme highlights how personal motives can obscure the pursuit of justice.

🔍 Deception

Deception plays a crucial role in the story, as characters manipulate truth for their own ends. The evolving narratives and surprising revelations challenge both the characters and the audience's perceptions of guilt and innocence. The film showcases how easily truth can be distorted in the quest for self-preservation.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:24

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