WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION

Sunday, July 13, 2:00 p.m. & Monday, July 28, 6:00 p.m. | When a wealthy widow is found murdered, the curmudgeonly, brilliant barrister Wilfrid Robards (Charles Laughton), agrees to defend the suspect Leonard Vole. As the trial unfolds, Leonard’s wife, the inscrutable Christine (Marlene Dietrich) takes the stand, and the twists begin. Based on the Agatha Christie play, WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION is a gripping courtroom drama, a pitch-perfect comedy, and an acting masterclass—the shocking ending is the cherry on top of a flawless film. As you catch your breath, over the credits, a friendly voice is heard, “The management of this theater suggests that for the greater entertainment of your friends who have not yet seen the picture you will not divulge to anyone the secret of the ending of WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION.” Case closed!

Awards & Nominations

Nominee - Best Picture, Best Actor in a Leading Role (Charles Laughton), Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Elsa Lanchester), Best Director, Best Sound, Best Editing, Academy Awards
Nominee - Best Picture, Best Actress - Drama (Marlene Dietrich), Best Actor - Drama (Charles Laughton), Best Director, Golden Globes
Winner - Best Supporting Actress (Elsa Lanchester), Golden Globes

Spoiler Alert | July 4–29, 2025

Zip your lips, hold your tongues, and keep it to yourself: you are entering a spoiler-free zone! The eight films of Spoiler Alert include twists, turns, and jaw-dropping conclusions, and the secrecy makes their reveals all the more satisfying. Some of you might try to guess the endings (beware of red herrings, false leads, and smokescreens!); others will relish the uncertainty. Either way, there’s nothing quite like the moment when everyone in the movie theater experiences the “aha!” together. No spoiler here; it’s the best.

The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu