Murder In The Red Barn

Murder In The Red Barn is a British film directed by Milton Rosmer and starred by Tod Slaughter, Sophie Stewart, and D.J. Williams. The story is based on an infamous murder case from the 19th century which took place in rural England. The film was released in 1935 and is iconic for its melodramatic style and gothic elements, a venture into the crime genre for director Milton Rosmer.

The story tells the chilling tale that unravels in a small town in Suffolk, England. The narrative revolves around Squire William Corder, portrayed masterfully by Tod Slaughter, who is a man of power and influence in the village. His character is framed as complex, rich, and ambiguous, displaying charisma and good nature outwardly while concealing a more sinister side. Corder is highly respected in the community for his social standing, but as the story progresses, the audience begins to see glimpses of his darker side, a man who is capable of dreadful deeds in his ambition and lust for wealth.

Sophie Stewart plays the character of Maria Marten, a young, innocent woman of a less privileged background who falls prey to Corder's manipulative charm. Her character is relatable and easily wins the audience's sympathy. The beautiful and talented Stewart brings life to Maria's character, capturing the sweetness and innocence of her character, and eventually, her struggle and despair in the hands of the villainous Corder.

D.J. Williams assumes the role of Marten’s father, a humble, hard-working man presented as a representation of the suffering working class. His performance adds depth to the storyline, injecting nuances of socio-economic disparities in the background of the tragic tale.

The setting, in keeping with the title of the film, prominently features a red barn that becomes central to the unfolding mystery. In the eerie backdrop of this barn, the suspense is further accentified. The overwhelming feeling of dread combined with the beautifully captured rustic landscape of Suffolk makes the whole scenario more gripping and scary.

Notably, the film’s dialogue is laced with an air of theatricality that lends a particular charm. Slaughter exploits the melodramatic script to excellent effect, exuding malice and deceit under a veneer of respectability. The actors’ deliveries contribute to the overall dark, brooding atmosphere of the film.

Interestingly, the film does not fully rely on gore or violence to evoke fear. Instead, it employs suspense, mystery, and implied threat, amplified by the powerful performances and the unsettling setup. The haunting score further enhances the suspense and accentuates the chilling thrill, driving the plot forward while building tension.

In terms of cinematic achievements, the director skillfully uses camera angles and lighting to accentuate the dread. An additional layer of fear is added with the portrayal of the societal framework wherein the privileged often escape the consequences of their heinous actions. The disparity between the classes and the misuse of power feed into the overall narrative, making it a commentary on social inequality.

If you are a fan of classic crime dramas rich with suspense and characterized by a strong storyline, Murder In The Red Barn is worth a watch. With its memorable performances, striking settings, and elements of social commentary, it stands out as a commendable film from British cinema during the pre-war era.

The film offers a blend of terror, suspense, and intrigue. While the storyline follows true events of the past, it is presenting their interpretation with a creative eye, giving audiences a dramatized glimpse into one of the gruesome chapters of British crime history. Even more than eight decades after its first release, Murder In The Red Barn retains its ability to captivate audiences with its intoxicating mix of melodrama and horror, making it a timeless classic in British cinema.