I Wake Up Screaming (1941): Plot, Cast & Rating

Name: I Wake Up Screaming
Genre: Mystery, Crime
Released: 1941
Duration: 82 min
Cast: Betty Grable, Victor Mature, Carole Landis, Laird Cregar, William Gargan

What I Wake Up Screaming Is About

I Wake Up Screaming is considered 20th Century Fox's first film noir, and film historians count it among three major contenders in the debate over the first true noir, alongside Stranger on the Third Floor and The Maltese Falcon; it opened just two weeks after The Maltese Falcon, on October 31, 1941. The film paired the Over the Rainbow theme, repeated in memory of the murdered model Vicki, with Alfred Newman's Gershwin inflected Street Scene theme, which would go on to appear in other Fox noirs, becoming the studio's unofficial noir musical signature. Who it's for: anyone curious about a film historians debate as an early contender for the first true noir, whose musical theme became a studio signature reused in later films. Who it's not for: viewers wanting the genre's mature, fully codified examples, since this was shot while the genre was still taking shape.

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Trailer

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is I Wake Up Screaming about?

I Wake Up Screaming is considered 20th Century Fox's first film noir, and film historians count it among three major contenders in the debate over the first true noir, alongside Stranger on the Third Floor and The Maltese Falcon; it opened just two weeks after The Maltese Falcon, on October 31, 1941. The film paired the Over the Rainbow theme, repeated in memory of the murdered model Vicki, with Alfred Newman's Gershwin inflected Street Scene theme, which would go on to appear in other Fox noirs, becoming the studio's unofficial noir musical signature.

Where can I watch I Wake Up Screaming?

I Wake Up Screaming isn't currently listed on major digital platforms. Availability can change over time. Check the "Where to Watch" section for the latest.

How long is I Wake Up Screaming?

I Wake Up Screaming runs for 82 minutes (1h 22m).

When did I Wake Up Screaming come out?

I Wake Up Screaming was released in 1941.

Who directed I Wake Up Screaming?

I Wake Up Screaming was directed by H. Bruce Humberstone.

Who stars in I Wake Up Screaming?

I Wake Up Screaming stars Betty Grable, Victor Mature, Carole Landis, Laird Cregar.

What is I Wake Up Screaming's rating?

I Wake Up Screaming holds 7.2/10 on IMDb and 6.9/10 on TMDB. Its Pulse Score is 70 out of 100.