Home Before Dark
A young woman returns home after being institutionalized in a mental hospital.
Critics Sentiment
Arnold finally admits he does not love Charlotte
Arnold tells Charlotte she is relapsing when confronted
The film dramatically shifts from its lowest point during Arnold's gaslighting denial to its emotional peak when he finally confesses the truth about not loving Charlotte.
Critics consistently praised Jean Simmons' powerhouse performance while finding the middle sections somewhat tedious and overwrought. The film builds effectively from a stifling, repetitive domestic situation to a devastating but ultimately liberating climax. Reviewers appreciated the psychological complexity and emotional truth, though many noted the excessive runtime and repetitive dialogue in the middle act.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 22
Jean Simmons
Charlotte Bronn
Dan O'Herlihy
Arnold Bronn
Rhonda Fleming
Joan Carlisle
Efrem Zimbalist Jr.
Jacob 'Jake' Diamond
Mabel Albertson
Inez Winthrop
Stephen Dunne
Hamilton Gregory
Joan Weldon
Frances Barrett
Joanna Barnes
Cathy Bergner
Kathryn Card
Mattie
Marjorie Bennett
Hazel Evans
Eleanor Audley
Mrs. Hathaway
Leoda Richards
Extra
Franklyn Farnum
New Year's Eve Party Reveller
Sam Harris
Christmas Party Reveller (uncredited)
Kenner G. Kemp
New Year's Eve Party Reveller
Frank McLure
Bank Officer
Harold Miller
Christmas Party Reveller/New Year's Eve Party Reveller
Jack Mower
Waiter
William H. O'Brien
Waiter at Christmas Party
Jeffrey Sayre
New Year's Eve Party Reveller
Crew
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