Fear in the Night (1946) | Directed by Maxwell Shane

"Fear in the Night" (1946) is a psychological thriller based on the short story "Nightmare" by Cornell Woolrich. The film follows the story of Vince Grayson, a young bank teller who experiences a disturbing dream where he finds himself murdering a man in a mirrored room. When Vince wakes up, he discovers physical evidence that the dream might have been real. Haunted by the possibility that he might be a killer, Vince turns to his brother-in-law, police detective Cliff Herlihy, for help. As they delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a web of intrigue and deception that leads to a shocking conclusion.

"Fear in the Night" is recognized for its innovative use of psychological horror and suspense. The film effectively creates a sense of paranoia and uncertainty, drawing the audience into Vince's troubled mind. The narrative is well-constructed, maintaining tension and intrigue throughout. Critics have praised the film for its atmospheric cinematography and the strong performances of the lead actors, particularly DeForest Kelley in his debut film role. Despite being a low-budget production, it manages to deliver a compelling and engaging thriller.

Star Cast
Vince Grayson: DeForest Kelley
Cliff Herlihy: Paul Kelly
Lil Herlihy: Ann Doran
Betty Winters: Kay Scott
Police Lieutenant: Robert Emmett Keane

"Fear in the Night" is directed by Maxwell Shane, who also wrote the screenplay. Shane's direction is noted for its ability to create a suspenseful and eerie atmosphere, making effective use of the film's modest budget. His adaptation of Woolrich's story is faithful to the source material, capturing the psychological depth and tension of the original narrative. Shane's work on "Fear in the Night" showcases his talent for crafting engaging thrillers with a strong psychological component.