Is Home Before Dark Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Home Before Dark is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 136 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Home Before Dark Review
Last updated: January 9, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1958, Home Before Dark enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on A young woman returns home after being institutionalized in a mental hospital. Under the direction of Mervyn LeRoy, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Jean Simmons, Dan O'Herlihy, Rhonda Fleming. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, Home Before Dark offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, though the pacing during its 136-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, Home Before Dark is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 7/10, the reception has been generally positive. For fans of Drama, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Home Before Dark Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $1,390,000 |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Home Before Dark Budget
The estimated production budget for Home Before Dark is $1,390,000. 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.
Cast of Home Before Dark
- Jean Simmons – Charlotte Bronn
- Dan O'Herlihy – Arnold Bronn
- Rhonda Fleming – Joan Carlisle
- Efrem Zimbalist Jr. – Jacob 'Jake' Diamond
- Mabel Albertson – Inez Winthrop
Top Highlights
Jean SimmonsCharlotte Bronn
Dan O'HerlihyArnold Bronn
Rhonda FlemingJoan Carlisle
Efrem Zimbalist Jr.Jacob 'Jake' Diamond
Mabel AlbertsonInez Winthrop
Stephen DunneHamilton Gregory
Joan WeldonFrances Barrett
Joanna BarnesCathy Bergner
Kathryn CardMattie
Marjorie BennettHazel Evans
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7/10, and global collection metrics, Home Before Dark stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1958 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Home Before Dark movie hit or flop?
Home Before Dark is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama movies.
Is Home Before Dark worth watching?
Yes, Home Before Dark is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama cinema.
What genre is Home Before Dark?
Home Before Dark is a Drama movie that A young woman returns home after being institutionalized in a mental hospital....
