Question 1

Which real-life murder case inspired one of the supernatural stories in the film?

Accepted Answer

The story of Francis Kent's murder is based on an actual 1860 case where 4-year-old Francis was killed at Road Hill House. His half-sister Constance was tried in 1865 and served 20 years in jail.

Question 2

How did this horror film inspire a major scientific theory about the universe?

Accepted Answer

Cosmologists Fred Hoyle, Thomas Gold and Hermann Bondi developed the Steady State theory of the universe after seeing the film, saying its circular plot structure inspired them.

Question 3

Why were U.S. audiences initially confused by the film's ending?

Accepted Answer

The U.S. distributor cut two segments ('Christmas Party' and 'Golfing Story'), making the nightmare montage confusing. These segments have since been restored to all U.S. releases.

Question 4

What pressure did Googie Withers face during the mirror smashing scene?

Accepted Answer

Withers revealed only one take was possible for the mirror smashing scene because Ealing Studios' budget didn't allow for more than one mirror, so she had to get it right immediately.

Question 5

Which prestigious film festival featured this movie in 1946?

Accepted Answer

The film was featured at the Locarno International Film Festival in 1946.

Loved this film?

Share with others

Loved this film?

Share with others

Dead of Night

Customers also watched