Though Nunally Johnson is credited for the screenplay (from J.H. Wallis novel), it was Lang's (slightly disappointing) decision that it turns out to be a dream - a decision he took against Johnson's wishes - though in a way that makes certain elements (like the various jokes that Edward G is the killer) more believable, and having the various participants appearing as themselves (Lang's idea, I think) at the end is good and predates modern versions of the same thing (e.g. in Tube Tales and Promoted to Glory). It's the same ending as The Cabinet of Dr Caligari, so Lang tells us (in Peter's invaluable 'Who the Devil Made It?') - though not a conscious influence.
It's a good, gripping nightmare. The woman is Lang favourite Joan Bennett, and Dan Duryea is at his oily best as the blackmailer. Not quite sure what Raymond Massy does for a living, but he's there to propel the story forward.
Good music from Arthur Lange (and a few uncredited others, apparently) and photographed by Milton Krasner. An Independent releasing Corp production. Edited by Marjorie Johnson.
'A better title would be The Woman in the Portrait, surely?' I posed, but Q pointed out that the portrait is in the window, so I stand corrected.
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