At the Stroke of Twelve 1941
Delve into the gripping short drama *At the Stroke of Twelve (1941)*, directed by Jean Negulesco, where a high-stakes night of crime and redemption unfolds in just 20 minutes. Based on Damon Runyon's sharp-witted story "The Old Doll's House," this Warner Bros.
Director: Jean Negulesco
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *At the Stroke of Twelve (1941)* about?
This short drama follows Lance McGowan, a racketeer trying to leave his criminal past behind, who gets caught in a deadly gang war. Wounded, he takes refuge in the home of a wealthy recluse, leading to a murder trial that blurs the lines between justice and survival.
Who directed *At the Stroke of Twelve*?
The film was directed by Jean Negulesco, a Romanian-American filmmaker known for his work in both classic Hollywood films and noir-style shorts.
Who stars in *At the Stroke of Twelve*?
The cast includes Craig Stevens as Lance McGowan, Elisabeth Risdon as the reclusive widow, Knox Manning, Howard Da Silva, and Ben Welden.
Is *At the Stroke of Twelve (1941)* worth watching?
While it's a short, *At the Stroke of Twelve* delivers a tight, noir-inspired story with strong performances and a dramatic twist. Fans of classic crime dramas or Damon Runyon adaptations will find it engaging, though its brevity limits deeper development.
How long is *At the Stroke of Twelve*?
The film runs for 20 minutes.
About At the Stroke of Twelve (1941) — A Twisted Tale of Crime, Redemption, and a Recluse's Secret
Delve into the gripping short drama *At the Stroke of Twelve (1941)*, directed by Jean Negulesco, where a high-stakes night of crime and redemption unfolds in just 20 minutes. Based on Damon Runyon's sharp-witted story "The Old Doll's House," this Warner Bros. short follows Lance McGowan, a racketeer on the brink of turning his life around, only to find himself caught in a deadly crossfire. Wounded and desperate, he stumbles into the home of a wealthy recluse, setting off a chain of events that leads to a dramatic murder trial. With its noir-tinged atmosphere and moral dilemmas, this short film captures the tension of a world where loyalty and betrayal hang in the balance.
Starring Craig Stevens as the conflicted Lance and Elisabeth Risdon as the enigmatic widow, *At the Stroke of Twelve* blends crime drama with a touch of Runyon's signature wit. The film's tight runtime amplifies its suspense, making it a standout entry in the "Broadway Brevity" series. Whether you're a fan of classic noirs or curious about early adaptations of Runyon's work, this short offers a compact but compelling cinematic experience.