REHEARSAL FOR MURDER

Cinemavixion Review

David Greene's 1982 telefilm "Rehearsal For Murder" is a taut and compelling mystery that masterfully blends theatrical intrigue with a classic whodunit structure. Penned by the renowned duo Richard Levinson and William Link, the film centers on playwright Alex Dennison (ably portrayed, though not explicitly credited in the local data, by Jeff Goldblum), who suspects foul play when his fiancée, actress Monica Welles, dies under mysterious circumstances following the disastrous opening night of her play. Convinced it was murder, not suicide, Dennison devises a cunning plan: he gathers the principal players involved in the production—including the seasoned Robert Preston and the formidable Lynn Redgrave—at an empty theatre, ostensibly to read for his new play, but in reality, to trap the killer among them. The confined setting amplifies the tension, as Dennison systematically unravels secrets and lies, turning the rehearsal into a high-stakes interrogation. While it may not have garnered major awards, "Rehearsal For Murder" stands as a testament to effective storytelling, offering a satisfyingly complex plot and strong performances that keep the audience guessing until the very end. It's a film that rewards close attention, proving that sometimes, the most gripping dramas unfold behind the curtain.