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OPEN CLASSIC CINEMA · 032

Guest in the House

1944117 minUnited States
Film noir
Video edition
YouTube
Original language
English
This copy runs
96:38
Subtitles
English

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Synopsis

A doctor's fragile fiancée is welcomed into his relatives' comfortable home. Beneath her apparent dependence, she begins manipulating the relationships around her, especially the marriage of the doctor's brother. Small insinuations gradually change the household's loyalties, creating a psychological drama in which hospitality gives an outsider unusual power.

Cast

DirectorsJohn BrahmLewis Milestone

Inspirations

Hagar Wilde and Dale Eunson's play provided the foundation for this story of a household destabilised from within. Its theatrical origins are reflected in the importance of shared rooms, private conversations and changing alliances.

Behind the scenes

Lewis Milestone began directing, but illness forced him to leave the production. John Brahm took over. The film's later reissue as Satan in Skirts promoted its destructive visitor more overtly than the original title had done.

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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