Customer Ratings & Reviews

WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION, a classic successful play by Agatha Christie, is a masterpiece adaptation directed by Billy Wilder. The performances by Charles Laughton, Marlene Deitrich, Tyrone Power and Elsa Lancaster are remarkable, with Laughton turning in one of his greatest screen roles, more than matching his Oscar-winning role The Private Life of Luis VIII. Laughton's witty stinging dialogue throughout the film is in my estimation makes his acting turn one of the finest in movie history. The film's plot is a string of mysterious clues throughout, but it isn't until the last ten minutes of this who-done-it that the surprise climax will baffle every viewer. Nothing matches this movie climax....nothing ever!!!! Expanded upon by Billy Wilder from Agatha Christie's droll dialogue in the play, this movie version enhances the overall delightful turns throughout. This is a perfect film in all regards. It's my opinion, and I have seen many films to warrant my saying so.

Billy Wider's "Witness for the Prosecution" is a classic whodunit with a dream cast of players but the show is stolen by Charles Laughton and his wife Elsa Lanchester playing a crusty attorney and his ever watchful health minded nurse. The glamour is added by Marlene Dietrich and Tyrone Power as lovers trying to save him from the Gallows. It's all smartly told and presented with a nice twist in the end. If only Hollywood could make a movie as good these days.

Laughton and Lanchester have amazing chemistry. Laughton is superb as the lead barrister, Sir Wilfrid Robarts. The story takes twists and turns, and Wilder elevates the story theatrically so its not just a play filmed for a movie.

Older movie with fantastic acting and script. Agatha Christie based film so expect a lot of twists and turns to the plot!

I really can't say enough positive about this great movie! The acting is terrific. Charles Laughton gives an amazing performance as does Marlene Dietrich! This movie will leave you breathless!