Is Wait Until Dark Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Wait Until Dark is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 108 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Wait Until Dark Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1967, Wait Until Dark emerges as a significant entry in the Thriller, Horror domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of After a flight back home, Sam Hendrix returns with a doll he innocently acquired along the way. Unlike standard genre fare, Wait Until Dark 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 Wait Until Dark features a noteworthy lineup led by Audrey Hepburn . Supported by the likes of Alan Arkin and Richard Crenna , 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 Wait Until Dark (1967) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.3/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Wait Until Dark Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Wait Until Dark is a Thriller, Horror 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.
Story Breakdown
The plot weaves a complex web of mystery and suspense. After a flight back home, Sam Hendrix returns with a doll he innocently acquired along the way. As it turns out, the doll is actually stuffed with heroin, and a group of criminals led by the ruthless Roat has followed Hendrix back to his place to retrieve it. When Hendrix leaves for business, the crooks make their move -- and find his blind wife, Susy, alone in the apartment. Soon, a life-threatening game begins between Susy and the thugs. Information is revealed strategically, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together clues alongside the protagonist. The narrative maintains momentum through well-timed revelations and unexpected turns.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The opening scene plants the seeds of mystery, introducing questions that will drive the narrative forward.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: All mysteries converge in a climax that recontextualizes earlier events and delivers satisfying answers.
Wait Until Dark Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Wait Until Dark 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 Wait Until Dark reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Wait Until Dark?
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
Wait Until Dark Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $4.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $11.0M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Wait Until Dark Budget
The estimated production budget for Wait Until Dark is $4.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Wait Until Dark
- Audrey Hepburn – Susy Hendrix
- Alan Arkin – Roat / Roat Jr. / Roat Sr.
- Richard Crenna – Mike Talman
- Efrem Zimbalist Jr. – Sam Hendrix
- Jack Weston – Carlino
Top Highlights
Audrey HepburnSusy Hendrix
Alan ArkinRoat / Roat Jr. / Roat Sr.
Richard CrennaMike Talman
Efrem Zimbalist Jr.Sam Hendrix
Jack WestonCarlino
Samantha JonesLisa
Julie HerrodGloria
Robby BensonBoy Tossing Ball (uncredited)
Mel FerrerFrench-Canadian Radio Speaker (voice) (uncredited)
Gary MorganTeenage Boy on Street (uncredited)
Where to Watch Wait Until Dark Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
TCM🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Wait Until Dark is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.3/10, and global collection metrics, Wait Until Dark stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1967 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wait Until Dark movie hit or flop?
Wait Until Dark is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.3/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Thriller, Horror movies.
Is Wait Until Dark worth watching?
Yes, Wait Until Dark is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Thriller, Horror cinema.
Where can I watch Wait Until Dark online?
Wait Until Dark is currently available for streaming on TCM. You can also check for it on platforms like TCM depending on your region.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
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