Witness for the Prosecution

Charles Laughton, who could be moody and difficult, was apparently a dream to work with, throwing himself into the role with dedication and delight. Billy Wilder later recalled a day that was set aside just for shooting reaction shots of the jury and courtroom crowd (composed of extras hired only for the day). Normally, the assistant director would read the actors' lines, and the extras would react. However, Laughton, who was fascinated with the whole process of filmmaking, begged to help. So he came in on his day off and read all of the off-camera speeches to the jury members. He not only read his part but also the judge's, the prosecutor's, and even Marlene Dietrich's. According to biographer Maurice Zolotow in his book "Billy Wilder in Hollywood", "it was an exhibition of craftsmanship such as Wilder had never seen. He believes that Charles Laughton had the greatest technical range and power of any actor, man or woman, whom he has known."

Whilst the story is set in London, the script contains several Americanisms such as "cot" for bed, "banana peel" for banana skin, "travel bureau" for travel agents, "roll up" for open, "movie" for film and "Scotch" for Scottish. Whilst some may be intentional, it is odd that Sir Wilfrid or Mrs French would use such colloquialisms. Conversely the US-accented Leonard uses the correct UK "quid" with reference to money.

As the end credits appear on screen, an announcer's 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."

Featured in Marlene (1984)