Mord ohne Mörder (1955)

Mord ohne Mörder: Directed by David Eady, George More O’Ferrall, Wendy Toye, Orson Welles. With Orson Welles, John Gregson, Elizabeth Sellars, Emrys Jones. A trilogy of fantastic stories involving murder and the supernatural.

“THREE CASES OF MURDER is a fun if little known British horror anthology, consisting of three stories all linked by murder and mysterious death. This is very much a cosy little production in which the horror and fantastic elements are played down, but it does share stylistic similarities with the likes of the Ealing classic DEAD OF NIGHT. Itu0026#39;s much tamer than the later Amicus anthologies.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eAs ever, the quality of the stories is mixed, with the first being the best. The main character is the curator of an art gallery who learns of the mysterious background of a particularly atmospheric painting of a spooky old house. He visits the house itself and the sinister occupiers, as well as the artist, only to learn of a terrifying secret. This story boasts strong acting and some great visuals and itu0026#39;s the highlight of the film – and the most supernatural.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThe second story is the weakest of the trio and also instantly forgettable. A couple of guys are accused of the murder of a girl, and each provides an alibi for the other. The characters are weak and unmemorable and nothing much happens. The third story is dominated by the presence of star Orson Welles who brings a ton of bluster and charisma to his role of the unpleasant House of Lords member who finds himself haunted by a rival in his dreams. Itu0026#39;s essentially an extension of the whole Macbeth/Banquo angle yet Welles makes it his own and lifts the material considerably. The humour might be a bit too broad here but itu0026#39;s a nice way to end a fun and atmospheric little production.”