Watch Murder!

Murder! is a classic mystery film from 1954 that stars James Stewart, Grace Kelly, and Wendell Corey. The movie unfolds in an English country house, where a group of actors has gathered to rehearse a play. During the rehearsal, one of the actresses is found murdered in her bedroom, and suspicion falls on everyone in the house. James Stewart plays Mark Halliday, a writer who is visiting the house and becomes involved in the investigation. Grace Kelly plays Sheila Regan, the wife of the murdered woman's lover, and Wendell Corey plays Inspector Hubbard, the police detective who is trying to solve the case.

As the investigation unfolds, the characters' pasts and motives are revealed, and the plot thickens with unexpected twists and turns. Each suspect has a plausible alibi, and it's up to Inspector Hubbard and Mark Halliday to sift through the clues and find the true culprit.

What makes Murder! so engaging is its use of suspense and misdirection. The movie keeps the audience guessing until the very end, with red herrings and false leads that lead us down different paths. James Stewart's performance as Mark Halliday is particularly noteworthy, as he brings a charming and witty presence to the character that keeps us engaged in the story.

Grace Kelly also shines as Sheila Regan, bringing a complex mix of emotions and motivations to her role. Her chemistry with James Stewart is palpable, adding an extra layer of tension and intrigue to their scenes together.

Wendell Corey's Inspector Hubbard is a reliable and steady presence, always on the case but never overpowering the other characters. His interactions with James Stewart are particularly enjoyable, as they play off each other's strengths and weaknesses.

The setting of the English country house also adds to the movie's atmosphere, with its richly appointed rooms and moody lighting creating a sense of intimacy and claustrophobia. The cinematography by Robert Burks is excellent, with his use of shadows and close-ups heightening the tension and suspense.

Overall, Murder! is an excellent example of the classic mystery genre, with its blend of suspense, misdirection, and strong performances by its cast. It keeps the audience engaged and guessing until the very end, and its impact can still be felt in the many mystery films that followed in its wake.

Murder! is a 1954 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received outstanding reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.5 and a MetaScore of 100.