A Tragedy at Midnight 1942
A whodunit radio host in *A Tragedy at Midnight (1942)* wakes to a nightmare: a woman lies dead in his bedroom, a knife buried in her back.
Director: Joseph Santley
Cast
John Howard
Greg Sherman
Margaret Lindsay
Beth Sherman
Roscoe Karns
Cassidy
Mona Barrie
Alta Wilton
Keye Luke
Ah Foo
Hobart Cavanaugh
Charles Miller
Paul Harvey
Landeck
Lilian Bond
Lola
Miles Mander
Dr. Wilton
William Newell
Swanson
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *A Tragedy at Midnight (1942)* about?
The film follows a radio show host who specializes in whodunits—until he wakes to find a real corpse in his bedroom with a knife in her back. As he scrambles to solve the crime, he becomes entangled in a web of clues that blur the line between his on-air persona and the dangerous reality unfolding around him.
Who directed *A Tragedy at Midnight*?
Joseph Santley directed this twisty 1942 mystery. Known for his work in lighthearted comedies and crime films, Santley brings a playful yet suspenseful touch to the story.
Who stars in *A Tragedy at Midnight*?
The film features John Howard as the radio host, with Margaret Lindsay, Roscoe Karns, Mona Barrie, and Keye Luke rounding out the main cast.
Is *A Tragedy at Midnight (1942)* worth watching?
*A Tragedy at Midnight* may fly under the radar, but it's a breezy, entertaining mystery with enough twists to keep you guessing. While it lacks the polish of big-studio noirs, its short runtime and radio-era charm make it a fun watch for fans of vintage crime capers.
How long is *A Tragedy at Midnight*?
*A Tragedy at Midnight* runs for 53 minutes, making it a perfect pick for a quick, engaging viewing experience.
About A Tragedy at Midnight (1942) — A Whodunit Radio Host Stumbles Into a Real-Life Murder
A whodunit radio host in *A Tragedy at Midnight (1942)* wakes to a nightmare: a woman lies dead in his bedroom, a knife buried in her back. Directed by Joseph Santley, this compact 53-minute mystery blends crime, comedy, and thriller elements into a twisty, radio-era tale where fiction and reality collide. John Howard stars as the bewildered host, flanked by a strong supporting cast including Margaret Lindsay and Roscoe Karns, all navigating a labyrinth of clues and red herrings. The film crackles with 1940s charm, from its shadowy noir atmosphere to its playful nods to classic detective stories, making it a time capsule of Golden Age suspense.
At its core, *A Tragedy at Midnight* explores themes of deception, justice, and the thin line between performer and audience. The confined setting—a single bedroom turned crime scene—heightens the tension, while the director's knack for pacing keeps the mystery engaging without overwhelming the viewer. Fans of vintage mysteries or lighthearted thrillers will find this a delightful, under-the-radar gem that's perfect for a quick, atmospheric watch on any screen.
Stream or download *A Tragedy at Midnight* to experience this underrated mystery in all its retro glory.
