About Time Without Pity

Time Without Pity is a 1957 British crime drama film that aims to thrill audiences with a storyline woven around suspense and intrigue. The movie was directed by Joseph Losey and produced by John Arnold. The film dances around the themes of capital punishment, alcoholism, and the intricate dynamics of family relationships.

Alec Graham (Alec McCowen) is unjustly accused of murdering his girlfriend. His father, David Graham (Michael Redgrave), recently recovered from alcoholism, is determined to prove his son's innocence. Ives (Peter Cushing) emerges as a subtle villain, and he plays a critical role in the twists and turns of the plot.

Making / Production

This black-and-white film was released under the banner of Harlequin Productions Ltd. The screenplay was developed by Ben Barzman, derived from Emlyn Williams' play. Filled with dramatic irony and suspenseful revelations, the movie maintenance audience engagement till the very end.

Actors

• Michael Redgrave as David Graham: Redgrave delivers a convincing portrayal of a desperate father who goes out of his way to save his son from the gallows.
• Alec McCowen as Alec Graham: McCowen plays the wrongly accused son with compelling depth and vulnerability.
• Peter Cushing as Ives: Cushing’s performance as the subtly sinister character, Ives, adds a spine chilling twist to the story.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film provided one of the early roles for actress Ann Todd, who later gained fame for her role in The Sound Barrier.
• The original play, "Time Without Pity," served as a critique of capital punishment at a time when its abolition was being debated in England.
• The film’s raw exploration of alcoholism was quite novel for its time, which made it a bold move by director Joseph Losey.

Awards

Despite the compelling performances from the actors and its gripping storyline, 'Time Without Pity' did not win any major awards.

Quotes

• "We've got 24 hours to save my son's life."
• "Guilty or not, my son's life means more to me than the whole bloody world."

Music, Soundtrack

• The eerie yet melancholic score of 'Time Without Pity' was composed by the renowned composer Tristram Cary.
• The haunting soundtrack beautifully complements the film's somber and suspenseful atmosphere.