Watch Dear Murderer

Dear Murderer is a dramatic thriller film that stands out for its nuanced characters and engrossing plot twists. Released in 1947, it stars Eric Portman, Greta Gynt, and Dennis Price in the lead roles. The film is set in post-war London and follows the story of a successful attorney, Stephen Kellington (played by Portman), who is also a notorious womanizer and an alcoholic. He is married to a wealthy and elegant woman named Grena (played by Gynt), with whom he has a tumultuous relationship. Despite his affluence and power, Kellington is deeply dissatisfied with his life and feels trapped in his marriage, which he believes has stifled his potential.

Kellington's life takes a dark turn when he becomes involved in a murder case. He begins an affair with his client's wife, Mary (played by Jane Hylton), who is accused of poisoning her husband. As he delves deeper into the case, Kellington finds himself torn between his loyalty towards Grena, his infatuation with Mary, and his professional duty to defend his client. The situation becomes even more complicated when Kellington starts to suspect that someone he knows may be behind the murder.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that Kellington is not just battling external pressures but also fighting his own demons. He is haunted by memories of his past affairs and struggles to come to terms with his reputation as a womanizer. Kellington's journey is a complex one, as he tries to navigate the tricky terrain of love, loyalty, and morality.

One of the standout features of Dear Murderer is its portrayal of women. Each female character is distinct and well-rounded, with their own motivations and desires. Grena is not just a passive victim of her husband's philandering, but a smart and self-assured woman who is unwilling to be pushed around. Mary is also given agency, and is not merely a pawn in the men's game. Her relationship with Kellington is complicated and nuanced, and their conversations are some of the most interesting in the film.

The film also benefits from strong performances from the entire cast. Eric Portman is excellent as Kellington, portraying the character with a mix of arrogance and vulnerability. Greta Gynt is equally impressive as Grena, elevating what could have been a one-dimensional character into a multi-layered one. Dennis Price is also effective as Kellington's friend and confidante, who provides some much-needed comic relief amidst the tension.

Dear Murderer is not just a murder mystery, but a character study that delves into the psyche of a complex and flawed individual. It is a film that keeps the audience guessing until the end, with several twists and turns that will have viewers on the edge of their seats. Despite being over 70 years old, it remains relevant and engaging, a testament to its timeless themes and strong storytelling.