The Suspect

What it’s about

In 1902 London, Philip, a genial shopkeeper, suffers a shrewish wife who nags him constantly. He meets Mary, a pretty young stenographer who is unemployed and dejected, and they become close friends. When his wife finds out and threatens to expose him, Philip kills her and makes it look like an accident.

What hooks you

Charles Laughton plays Philip, with Ella Raines as Mary. The film is based on James Ronald's novel "This Way Out". Its slogan reads: "His was a strange SECRET! Hers was a strange LOVE!" A ruthless blackmailer and a low-key detective both discover Philip's secret, and he must decide which is more dangerous.

Who it’s for

It will appeal to those who like domestic noir where a mild-mannered man is pushed to extremes. Those who enjoy black-and-white thrillers with a period London setting and a focus on moral ambiguity will find this a tight, suspenseful drama.