A Life at Stake
Director: Paul Guilfoyle
Actors: Angela Lansbury, Keith Andes, Douglass Dumbrille
PlotEdward Shaw, a struggling architect, finds himself on the brink of financial ruin after being swindled by his former business partner. Desperate to regain his footing, he is approached by Doris Hillman, the attractive wife of a wealthy businessman, with a lucrative proposition. Doris offers a partnership in an architectural project and proposes they build a series of homes together. The deal comes with the tantalizing promise of substantial profits, but also a troubling insurance clause that makes Edward the sole beneficiary should anything happen to him. Despite his initial reservations, Edward, pressed by his dire financial situation, agrees to the arrangement.
As the project unfolds, Edward becomes increasingly ensnared in a complex web of deceit and intrigue. His suspicions about Doris's true intentions grow when he realizes that his life insurance policy is payable only at his death. Edward confides in Madge, Doris's sister, who also harbors concerns about her sibling's motivations. Tensions mount as he navigates the treacherous waters of this dangerous business deal. Paranoia and doubt simmer, casting shadows on his every decision. As he delves deeper into the situation, Edward grapples with the realization that his life might be at risk in more ways than one. His unease mounts as every move holds potential peril, and he must decide whom to trust in this chilling game of life and stakes.
Writers: Russ Bender, Hank McCune
Release Date: 18 Mar 1955
Runtime: 78 min
Rating: Not Rated
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
A Life at Stake is an underrated 1950s b-movie noir featuring Angela Lansbury, with solid technical merits and interesting supplements.
Read our review of A Life at Stake Blu-ray to find out more