Back to the collection

OPEN CLASSIC CINEMA · 1241

Outward Bound

193083 minUnited States

Video edition: Wikimedia Commons
Original language: English
This copy runs: 82:28
Subtitles: No subtitle track in this language

Languages and subtitles

No subtitle track in this language

Wikimedia Commons · Robert Milton · Public domain

Synopsis

A group of strangers find themselves aboard a fogbound ship without a clear destination. Their conversations gradually reveal lives marked by concealed relationships, pride and regret. As the nature of the voyage becomes apparent, each must face a judgment that ordinary social standing cannot settle.

Cast

Leslie Howard

Douglas Fairbanks Jr.

Helen Chandler

Beryl Mercer

Dudley Digges

Alec B. Francis

DirectorsRobert Milton

Inspirations

Sutton Vane's play becomes a screen fantasy about death and moral reckoning. Leslie Howard, who had played Henry onstage, takes the different role of Tom Prior in the film.

Sources and availability

General references identify the work and its copy. A reference beside an editorial section is linked to the claims checked in that section.

Wikipedia — film reference Wikidata — film identity and credits

Work catalogued as public domain in the United States.

The public-domain references concern the original films in the United States. Rights can differ for other countries, editions, restorations, music or translations. Sources are listed on each film page.

Availability checked on September 15, 2026.

Photograph credit

Photographs cropped, resized and optimized as WebP, displayed in monochrome.

Leslie Howard — Selznick International Pictures; Fred Parrish, photographer · Public domain
Douglas Fairbanks Jr. — Allan warren · CC BY-SA 3.0
Dudley Digges — Theatre Arts Inc., photograph by Francis Bruguiere · Public domain
Alec B. Francis — Unknown author Unknown author; Internet Archive · Public domain

Audience rating

Loading ratings…