Among the Living
Director: Stuart Heisler
Actors: Albert Dekker, Susan Hayward, Frances Farmer
PlotIn a small Southern town, identical twins are separated at birth due to a family tragedy. One twin, John, is raised in a normal environment, becoming a successful businessman. The other, Paul, is presumed dead but secretly sheltered in a mansion’s attic by his father, who fears public shame. Years later, when the father dies, John returns to town for the funeral. During the visit, Paul escapes confinement, unbeknownst to anyone, and wanders the town. His presence, mistaken for John's by townspeople, causes confusion, especially when Paul starts committing violent acts under the delusion imposed by years of isolation.
The town is thrown into chaos as reports of a madman surface, with authorities on high alert. John finds himself under suspicion due to their identical appearance, complicating the investigation and endangering his reputation. Meanwhile, a young woman named Millie crosses paths with Paul and uncovers some unsettling truths. As tension mounts, she finds herself in grave danger. In a series of tense encounters and mistaken identities, John must race against time to clear his name and uncover the mystery surrounding his brother’s reappearance. The situation escalates to a climactic confrontation where family secrets and long-buried truths come to light, setting the stage for an unsettling resolution.
Writers: Lester Cole, Garrett Fort, Brian Marlow
Release Date: 19 Dec 1941
Runtime: 67 min
Rating: Approved
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Among the Living: A distinct noir style with Gothic elements, explores class and mental illness, marred by initial release timing but now a cult classic.
Read our review of Among the Living Blu-ray to find out more