A Death in Canaan Poster

A Death in Canaan 1978

★ 5.33 votes125 min📅 1978-03-01

Set against the backdrop of a seemingly quiet Connecticut town, *A Death in Canaan (1978)* weaves a gripping drama around a shocking accusation that fractures the community.

Director: Tony Richardson

Cast

Stefanie Powers
Stefanie Powers
Joan Barthel
Paul Clemens
Paul Clemens
Peter Reilly
Tom Atkins
Tom Atkins
Lt. Bragdon
Jacqueline Brooks
Mildred Carston
Brian Dennehy
Brian Dennehy
Barney Parsons
Conchata Ferrell
Conchata Ferrell
Rita Parsons
Charles Haid
Charles Haid
Sgt. Case
Floyd Levine
Floyd Levine
Thomas Lanza
Kenneth McMillan
Kenneth McMillan
Sgt. Tim Scully
Gavan O'Herlihy
Gavan O'Herlihy
Father Mark

Frequently Asked Questions

What is A Death in Canaan (1978) about?

A teenager in the quiet town of Canaan is accused of murdering his mother, sparking a legal battle that divides the community. The film examines the ripple effects of grief, suspicion, and justice as neighbors and families grapple with the truth.

Who directed A Death in Canaan?

Tony Richardson, the acclaimed British director known for his work on films like *Tom Jones* and *The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner*, helmed *A Death in Canaan*.

Who stars in A Death in Canaan?

The cast features Stefanie Powers as the lead, joined by Paul Clemens, Tom Atkins, Jacqueline Brooks, and rising talent Brian Dennehy.

Is A Death in Canaan (1978) worth watching?

As a classic TV movie drama, *A Death in Canaan* stands out for its tense storytelling and strong performances, though it's more of a slow-burn courtroom drama than a fast-paced thriller. Fans of character-driven stories will appreciate its depth, even if it's not widely remembered today.

How long is A Death in Canaan?

The film has a runtime of 125 minutes, offering a substantial runtime for its atmospheric storytelling.

About A Death in Canaan (1978) — A Town's Dark Secret Unfolds in This Classic TV Drama

Set against the backdrop of a seemingly quiet Connecticut town, *A Death in Canaan (1978)* weaves a gripping drama around a shocking accusation that fractures the community. Directed by Tony Richardson, this TV movie unfolds when a teenager—his mother murdered—becomes the prime suspect, igniting a legal and emotional storm. As the trial exposes tensions between justice and compassion, the story explores themes of guilt, loyalty, and the fragility of small-town morality. Richardson's atmospheric direction, paired with a cast delivering raw performances, turns this courtroom drama into a tense, character-driven narrative that lingers long after the verdict.

The film's restrained yet haunting tone captures the unease of a town caught between outrage and empathy, where every relationship is tested by the weight of accusation. With a runtime of 125 minutes, *A Death in Canaan* balances procedural tension with intimate human drama, making it a compelling watch for fans of classic TV movies and courtroom thrillers alike.