State Secret Poster

State Secret 1950

★ 6.717 votes104 min📅 1950-09-11

"ADVENTURE SWEEPING ACROSS A CONTINENT!"

In "State Secret (1950)," the acclaimed British director Sidney Gilliat crafts a gripping Cold War-era thriller that blends suspense, drama, and romance into a relentless chase across treacherous landscapes. Doctor John Marlowe, played by the charismatic Douglas Fairbanks Jr.

Director: Sidney Gilliat

Cast

Douglas Fairbanks Jr.
Douglas Fairbanks Jr.
Dr. John Marlowe
Glynis Johns
Glynis Johns
Lisa Robinson
Jack Hawkins
Jack Hawkins
Colonel Galcon
Herbert Lom
Herbert Lom
Karl Theodor
Walter Rilla
Walter Rilla
General Niva
Karl Stepanek
Karl Stepanek
Dr. Revo
Hans Olaf Moser
Sigrist
Guido Lorraine
Guido Lorraine
Lieutenant Prachi
Robert Ayres
Robert Ayres
Arthur J. Buckman
Howard Douglas
Howard Douglas
Clubman

Frequently Asked Questions

What is State Secret (1950) about?

The film follows American surgeon Dr. John Marlowe, who travels to the fictional East-European country of Vosnia to receive an award, only to become entangled in a dangerous political conspiracy. Forced to flee for his life, he teams up with an actress to navigate treacherous mountains while evading assassins.

Who directed State Secret?

Sidney Gilliat directed State Secret (1950), known for crafting suspenseful narratives with intricate political themes.

Who stars in State Secret?

The movie features Douglas Fairbanks Jr. as Dr. John Marlowe, Glynis Johns as Lisa Robinson, Jack Hawkins, Herbert Lom, and Walter Rilla.

Is State Secret (1950) worth watching?

While it lacks an IMDb rating, State Secret is a well-crafted Cold War thriller with strong performances and a gripping plot. Its blend of suspense, romance, and political intrigue makes it a rewarding watch for fans of classic cinema, though modern audiences may find its pacing slower compared to contemporary films.

How long is State Secret?

State Secret runs for 104 minutes.

About State Secret (1950) — A Cold War Thriller with High-Stakes Drama and Escape

In "State Secret (1950)," the acclaimed British director Sidney Gilliat crafts a gripping Cold War-era thriller that blends suspense, drama, and romance into a relentless chase across treacherous landscapes. Doctor John Marlowe, played by the charismatic Douglas Fairbanks Jr., finds himself entangled in a perilous political conspiracy after being lured to the fictional East-European nation of Vosnia under the guise of a prestigious medical award. What begins as a professional honor quickly spirals into a life-or-death struggle as Marlowe becomes the target of a ruthless assassination plot, forcing him to flee through the rugged mountains with only a courageous English-speaking actress, Lisa Robinson (Glynis Johns), as his ally. The film masterfully balances high-stakes tension with human drama, creating an atmosphere of paranoia and urgency that keeps viewers on edge.

The movie's themes of betrayal, survival, and the blurred lines between personal and political danger elevate it beyond a simple adventure story, offering a nuanced exploration of Cold War anxieties. With its brooding cinematography and a stellar cast led by Jack Hawkins and Herbert Lom, "State Secret (1950)" delivers a compelling narrative that feels as relevant today as it did over seven decades ago. A hidden gem of classic cinema, this film is a must-watch for fans of vintage thrillers with depth and intrigue.