On the Night of the Fire Poster

On the Night of the Fire 1939

★ 5.29 votes94 min📅 1939-10-26

"A Cast of Inspired Players in Award Winning Performances!"

Dive into the gripping world of 1939's crime drama *On the Night of the Fire*, directed by the visionary Brian Desmond Hurst.

Director: Brian Desmond Hurst

Cast

Ralph Richardson
Ralph Richardson
Will Kobling
Diana Wynyard
Diana Wynyard
Kit Kobling
Romney Brent
Romney Brent
Jimsey Jones
Mary Clare
Mary Clare
Lizzie Crane
Henry Oscar
Henry Oscar
Andrew Pilleger
Dave Crowley
Jim Smith
Gertrude Musgrove
Gertrude Musgrove
Dora Smith
Frederick Leister
Frederick Leister
Inspector
Ivan Brandt
Wilson
Sara Allgood
Sara Allgood
Bridget O'Brien

Frequently Asked Questions

What is On the Night of the Fire (1939) about?

This 1939 crime drama follows a barber whose brief lapse in judgment—stealing money—triggers a chain of blackmail and murder. As his secret unravels, the consequences force him into a moral abyss with no escape. The film captures the tension of a life spiraling out of control under the weight of guilt.

Who directed On the Night of the Fire?

Brian Desmond Hurst directed *On the Night of the Fire*. Known for his atmospheric storytelling and visual flair, Hurst crafts a moody crime drama that immerses viewers in its gritty narrative.

Who stars in On the Night of the Fire?

The film features standout performances from Ralph Richardson, Diana Wynyard, Romney Brent, Mary Clare, and Henry Oscar.

Is On the Night of the Fire (1939) worth watching?

While it's an unrated classic, *On the Night of the Fire* offers a compelling blend of drama and suspense, anchored by strong performances from its cast. Fans of vintage crime films with moral complexity will find it rewarding, though its pacing may feel deliberate by modern standards.

How long is On the Night of the Fire?

The runtime of *On the Night of the Fire* is 94 minutes.

About On the Night of the Fire (1939) — A 1939 Crime Drama with Ralph Richardson and Diana Wynyard

Dive into the gripping world of 1939's crime drama *On the Night of the Fire*, directed by the visionary Brian Desmond Hurst. This atmospheric thriller follows a seemingly ordinary barber whose life spirals into chaos after a moment of weakness leads to theft, blackmail, and a dark descent into murder. Set against a backdrop of moral decay and societal pressures, the film explores themes of temptation, guilt, and consequence with haunting intensity. Starring the legendary Ralph Richardson and Diana Wynyard, the movie delivers powerhouse performances that breathe life into its tense narrative, offering a suspenseful journey through the underbelly of urban life.

The shadowy corridors of crime and the unraveling of a man's conscience drive this relentless drama forward, making *On the Night of the Fire (1939)* a standout entry in classic British cinema. With its noir-inspired mood and sharp character studies, the film remains a compelling watch for fans of vintage crime thrillers looking for substance and style in equal measure.