Midnight Lace (1960)
What Genre is it?
Mystery/Thriller
Starring Doris Day, Rex Harrison, and Myrna Loy, Midnight Lace is not your typical Doris Day film. Suspense, intrigue, lies, and deception lace this Mystery/Thriller.
Why Watch Midnight Lace?
Kit Preston (Day) loves her husband Anthony Preston (Harrison). Everything about this couple’s life seems ideal. Anthony’s business endeavors have been very successful according to business partners, and Kit’s fallen in love with her new home in foggy London. Until one day when the unexpected sends Kit into a dizzy spiral of confusion.
While walking home, a voice in the park threatens her and shatters her seemingly perfect world. Worse yet, even at home, Kit is not safe. Threatening phone calls leave Kit helpless. Dearly devoted new husband Anthony doesn’t know what to think of his wife’s behavior nor does he know what to do about the supposed prank calls. Then, when the police inspector suggests that Kit is lonely and has conceived this ridiculous plot for attention, Anthony is torn between loyalty to his wife or following the advice of those more familiar with such circumstances.
When the problems persist, Anthony has no choice but to conclude his wife simply wants attention. Thus, he dismisses the problem. Until, the phone rings yet again. Is Kit truly just lonely? Could any wife pretend so perfectly that her life is in danger?
Overwhelmed Kit panics. No one will believe her story—not even her Aunt Bea (Loy). Neighbors and strangers seem interested in Kit, but who would threaten her? Will Kit, Anthony, and Bea find out who keeps ringing before it’s too late? Will Kit prove innocent or delusional? The clock is ticking while the phone is ringing, but who is lurking in the shadows?
Awards
Midnight Lace received two nominations: the Academy Award for Best Costume Design and the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress—Motion Picture, Drama.
Behind the Scenes Fun
Memorable Quote
“I turned the lights off, and I spotted him in the dark of a doorway. Just standing there like he was waiting for someone with no good in his mind…. What do you suppose he’s up to?”
~The Waitress
Where can you find Midnight Lace?
You can view Midnight Lace for free on DailyMotion through the link below:
4 Comments
Jane Malcolm
This is an excellent movie. It is great to see both leads in roles so different from the ones they are known for. Rex Harrison seems to me terrifyingly convincing, even (maybe especially) against type. And our darling Doris shows she has acting skills most do not credit her with! In his autobiography, James Cagney says this movie proves she could have had an outstanding career as a dramatic actress had she chosen to. Cagney considered it a great loss to the movie industry, but many of us love those Hudson-Day romcoms and would consider it a loss if she had been off doing dramatic thrillers instead. I also love Myrna Loy in this movie (and everything else she was in). She had a long and stellar career and always looked gorgeous and glamorous at every stage of her life (she was in her mid-50s when this movie was made).
vintagemoviefun
Jane, I love your thoughts about Rex Harrison, Doris Day, and Myrna Loy! I didn’t realize how much Cagney wanted Day to play in dramatic roles. That explains why he pushed so hard to have her play in “Love Me or Leave Me.” I agree with you though; it would have been a a blow to never have the Hudson-Day romcoms. Imagine cinema history without Pillow Talk! I’m glad she focused on comedies but experiemented with dramas. Then, the lovely Myrna Loy; she was a wonderful actress, and I love her style! It’s hard to believe she was in her mid-50s during this film. Thank you so much for sharing your insights!
Carolyn
I love this movie so much. Doris was so believable in this role, and her wardrobe was amazing! I can see why the movie was nominated for Best Costume Design and Best Actress awards. Doris was very versatile and talented in dramatic roles like this and the beloved romantic comedies like Pillow Talk. Great review! I may have to watch it again this weekend.
vintagemoviefun
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, Carolyn! Yes, Doris’ wardrobe was amazing in this film! From her hats to her dresses, she was so stylish. Truly, Doris was very versatile in the roles she could play. You’re so right; she displayed her amazing talent whether she was the tormented wife picking up the phone in Midnight Lace or the snappy interior decorator at the end of Rock’s party line in Pillow Talk. No matter what her role, she put her whole self into creating a character we could root for and adore. Thanks again for sharing what you love about Midnight Lace!