Is Gaslight Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Gaslight is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 84 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Gaslight Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1940, Gaslight emerges as a significant entry in the Thriller, Mystery domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Twenty years removed from Alice Barlow's murder by a thief looking for her jewels, newlyweds Paul and Bella Mallen move into the very house where the crime was committed. Unlike standard genre fare, Gaslight attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a refreshing take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Gaslight features a noteworthy lineup led by Anton Walbrook . Supported by the likes of Diana Wynyard and Frank Pettingell , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Gaslight (1940) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.1/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Gaslight Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Gaslight is a Thriller, Mystery film that builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Gaslight Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Gaslight resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to thriller resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Gaslight reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Gaslight?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Thriller films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want suspenseful moments and mystery
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Full Cast & Crew of Gaslight
- Anton Walbrook – Paul Mallen (as Anton Wahlbrook)
- Diana Wynyard – Bella Mallen
- Frank Pettingell – B.G. Rough
- Cathleen Cordell – Nancy the Parlour Maid
- Robert Newton – Ullswater
Top Highlights
Anton WalbrookPaul Mallen (as Anton Wahlbrook)
Diana WynyardBella Mallen
Frank PettingellB.G. Rough
Cathleen CordellNancy the Parlour Maid
Robert NewtonUllswater
Jimmy HanleyCobb
Minnie RaynerElizabeth
Marie WrightAlice Barlow
Aubrey DexterHouse Agent
Mary HintonLady Winterbourne
Where to Watch Gaslight Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
Gaslight has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Thriller, Mystery), it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.1/10, and global collection metrics, Gaslight stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1940 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gaslight movie hit or flop?
Gaslight is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.1/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Thriller, Mystery movies.
Is Gaslight worth watching?
Yes, Gaslight is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Thriller, Mystery cinema.
Where can I watch Gaslight online?
Gaslight may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Critic Reviews for Gaslight
I always feel that this version has been overshadowed by it's much higher profile 1944 iteration, but is actually every bit as good. A newly married couple move into their home on a Victorian Square and soon afterwards "Bella" (Diana Wynyard) starts to become absent minded, starts to misplace things, forget things. Her initially supportive husband "Paul" (Anton Walbrook) starts to lose patience with her and when she starts to imagine footsteps and flickering gas lamps he threatens to have her certified... Except, what's really going on? Is she what she seems - and, is he? The timely arrival of "Rough" (Frank Pettingell) starts to cause us all to question as he discovers that the husband may have a hidden, much more sinister, past! Thorold Dickinson does well with the pace of this tautly directly adaptation of Patrick Hamilton's play; the performances - especially a menacing Walbrook - are tight and convincing and Richard Addinsell has created a score that perfectly matches the pace as the mystery heads to it's denouement.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
