Is Murder by Television Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Murder by Television is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 53 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Murder by Television Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1935, Murder by Television emerges as a significant entry in the Thriller, Mystery, Horror, Science Fiction domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of James Houghland, inventor of a new method by which television signals can be instantaneously sent anywhere in the world, refuses to sell the process to television companies, who then send agents to acquire the invention any way they can. Unlike standard genre fare, Murder by Television attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Clifford Sanforth, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Thriller elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Murder by Television features a noteworthy lineup led by Bela Lugosi. Supported by the likes of June Collyer and Huntley Gordon, 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. However, the sheer charisma of Bela Lugosi, June Collyer, Huntley Gordon manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 1935 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Thriller, Mystery, Horror, Science Fiction space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, Murder by Television is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of Murder by Television follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 53 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, Murder by Television resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Thriller landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 4/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, Murder by Television is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the boundaries of human experience. James Houghland, inventor of a new method by which television signals can be instantaneously sent anywhere in the world, refuses to sell the process to television companies, who then send agents to acquire the invention any way they can. On the night of his initial broadcast Houghland is mysteriously murdered in the middle of his demonstration and it falls to Police Chief Nelson to determine who the murderer is from the many suspects present.
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Murder by Television (1935) is overwhelmingly negative. With an audience rating of 4/10 and strong performance metrics in the Thriller, Mystery, Horror, Science Fiction categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Bela Lugosi, June Collyer, Huntley Gordon or the visual majesty of its technical execution, Murder by Television is a significant contribution to the cinema of 1935. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Murder by Television Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $35,000 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Murder by Television Budget
The estimated production budget for Murder by Television is $35,000. 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.
Where to Watch Murder by Television Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
Murder by Television has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Thriller, Mystery, Horror, Science Fiction), viewers should expect frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4/10, and global collection metrics, Murder by Television stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1935 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Murder by Television movie hit or flop?
Murder by Television is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4/10 and lower collections.
Is Murder by Television worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4/10, Murder by Television may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Murder by Television online?
Murder by Television 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.
Explore More Verdicts
Synopsis
James Houghland, inventor of a new method by which television signals can be instantaneously sent anywhere in the world, refuses to sell the process to television companies, who then send agents to acquire the invention any way they can. On the night of his initial broadcast Houghland is mysteriously murdered in the middle of his demonstration and it falls to Police Chief Nelson to determine who the murderer is from the many suspects present.