Dive into the tense and atmospheric world of The Night of June 13, a 1932 pre-code mystery drama now stunningly colorized for modern audiences. Directed by Stephen Roberts, this film weaves a compelling tale of jealousy, mental illness, and a murder trial set in a seemingly quiet suburban neighborhood. This HD download offers a fresh perspective on a classic film, bringing its complex characters and suspenseful storyline to life with vibrant color and clarity.
The story centers on Elna Curry, a former concert pianist suffering from neurasthenia, whose unfounded jealousy of her neighbor Trudie Morrow spirals into tragedy. Convinced that Trudie is having an affair with her husband John Curry, Elna vows revenge. John, aware of Elna’s fragile mental state, confides in Trudie, who kindly offers to move away to ease tensions.
One fateful evening, John returns home late to find Elna dead. To protect Trudie from suspicion, John burns Elna’s suicide note, inadvertently implicating himself in a murder investigation. The film then shifts to a gripping courtroom drama, where John stands trial amid a web of lies and conflicting testimonies from neighbors, each with their own motives and secrets.
This layered narrative explores themes of mental health, trust, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the backdrop of a tightly knit community where appearances can be deceiving.
Clive Brook as John Curry
Frances Dee as Ginger Blake
Charles Ruggles as Philo Strawn
Lila Lee as Trudie Morrow
Gene Raymond as Herbert Morrow
Mary Boland as Mazie Strawn
Adrianne Allen as Elna Curry
Charley Grapewin as “Grandpop” Jeptha Strawn
This ensemble cast delivers nuanced performances that elevate the film’s emotional intensity and suspense.
The Night of June 13 is a pre-code mystery drama that blends psychological tension with courtroom intrigue. Its exploration of mental illness and social dynamics adds depth to the classic murder mystery formula, making it a standout example of early 1930s American cinema.
Released in 1932 by Paramount Pictures, this film belongs to Hollywood’s pre-code era, a time when filmmakers could tackle mature themes with fewer restrictions. The film’s candid depiction of mental illness, jealousy, and moral ambiguity reflects the era’s willingness to explore complex social issues.
The film also captures the anxieties of the early 1930s, a period marked by economic hardship and shifting societal norms. Its suburban setting and focus on interpersonal drama offer a window into the tensions simmering beneath the surface of American life during the Great Depression.
This colorized edition of The Night of June 13 has been carefully restored using advanced digital techniques. The process involved detailed analysis of the original black-and-white footage to assign authentic colors that enhance the mood and period detail without compromising the film’s original tone.
The colorization enriches the film’s visual storytelling, highlighting the contrast between the serene suburban environment and the dark emotional undercurrents driving the plot. From the characters’ expressive faces to the nuanced set designs, the color brings a new dimension to this classic mystery drama.
: Stephen Roberts
: William Slavens McNutt, Brian Marlow, Agnes Brand Leahy, Allen Rivkin, Vera Caspary
: Original screenplay
: Henry Sharp
: Paramount Pictures
: Paramount Pictures
: Approximately 70 minutes
: MP4
: HD (1080p)
: Compatible with smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
The Night of June 13 was noted for its intense drama and psychological depth at the time of release. While not as widely known today as some contemporaries, it remains a compelling example of pre-code filmmaking, especially for its daring subject matter and courtroom suspense.
The film’s exploration of mental illness and societal judgment was ahead of its time, offering a nuanced portrayal rarely seen in early 1930s cinema. Its ensemble cast, led by Clive Brook and Frances Dee, delivers performances that continue to engage classic film aficionados.
: What is the central conflict in The Night of June 13?
A: The film revolves around a man accused of murdering his mentally ill wife, with the story unfolding through a tense murder trial.
: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes, this edition has been professionally colorized to enhance the viewing experience.
: Who are the lead actors?
A: Clive Brook stars as John Curry, with Frances Dee playing Ginger Blake.
: What genre does the film belong to?
A: It is a pre-code mystery drama with courtroom and psychological thriller elements.
: How long is the film?
A: The runtime is approximately 70 minutes.
Experience the gripping suspense and emotional depth of The Night of June 13 today!