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OPEN CLASSIC CINEMA · 015

Cause for Alarm!

195174 minUnited States
DramaThriller
Video edition
YouTube
Original language
English
This copy runs
73:37
Subtitles
English

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Synopsis

Caring for her seriously ill husband, Ellen discovers that his growing suspicions have produced a letter accusing her of a murder plot. The accusation is already on its way through the postal system when a sudden crisis leaves her desperate to retrieve it. Ordinary neighbours, doorsteps and delivery routines become obstacles in a domestic race against time.

Cast

DirectorsTay Garnett

Inspirations

The premise came from a radio play by Larry Marcus. Its tightly focused danger transfers naturally to the screen: ordinary domestic routines and a familiar postal route become the machinery of suspense.

Behind the scenes

Tay Garnett prepared the cast and crew extensively before a shoot lasting only fourteen days. Loretta Young later drew on that preparation method for her television work. Residential streets near Hollywood's Melrose Avenue supplied the everyday exterior setting.

Sources and availability

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WikipediaInternet Archive

Work catalogued as public domain in the United States.

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Availability checked on September 10, 2026.

Photograph credit

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