Sorry, Wrong Number is a suspenseful psychological thriller centered on a bedridden woman who accidentally overhears a conversation about a planned murder while trying to reach her husband on the telephone. As she desperately tries to piece together the fragments of the call, a chilling web of secrets and betrayal is slowly revealed. The story unfolds through flashbacks, with rising tension leading to a dramatic and unforgettable conclusion.
Genre: Thriller, Film Noir, Drama
Director: Anatole Litvak
Anatole Litvak (1902–1974) was a Ukrainian-born director who worked in multiple countries before making a name for himself in Hollywood. Known for his strong direction of actors and effective use of suspense, Litvak brought a European sensibility to American film noir and wartime dramas. His credits include The Snake Pit and Decision Before Dawn. He was respected for tackling psychological themes and bringing emotional complexity to mainstream films.
Star Cast:
- Barbara Stanwyck as Leona Stevenson
- Burt Lancaster as Henry Stevenson
- Ann Richards as Sally Hunt Lord
- Wendell Corey as Dr. Alexander
- Harold Vermilyea as Waldo Evans
- Ed Begley as James Cotterell
Public Reaction:
Sorry, Wrong Number was a critical and commercial success. Barbara Stanwyck’s intense and nuanced performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Audiences were captivated by the film’s unique structure, chilling atmosphere, and the gradual, dread-filled build-up to its climax. The story’s originality and execution made it a standout thriller of the late 1940s and cemented its place as a noir classic.
Fun Facts:
- The film is based on Lucille Fletcher’s famous 1943 radio play of the same name, originally performed by Agnes Moorehead and considered one of the most memorable radio dramas of all time.
- Barbara Stanwyck’s performance was widely lauded and is still considered one of her finest roles.
- The film was shot using a complex flashback structure, which was innovative at the time and contributed to its suspense.
- Composer Franz Waxman created an eerie score that intensified the mood and helped drive the suspense throughout the film.
- The original radio version was so popular it was performed multiple times before being adapted into a feature film.
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