Verdict:The Dark at the Top of the Stairs is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 6.4/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Drama genre.
Answer: Yes, The Dark at the Top of the Stairs is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 124 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 1960, The Dark at the Top of the Stairs enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on In Oklahoma in the 1920s, Rubin Flood loses his job as a traveling salesman when the company goes bankrupt. Under the direction of Delbert Mann, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Robert Preston. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, The Dark at the Top of the Stairs offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 124-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Beyond the narrative, The Dark at the Top of the Stairs resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of early 2026, The Dark at the Top of the Stairs is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
The plot of The Dark at the Top of the Stairs centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. In Oklahoma in the 1920s, Rubin Flood loses his job as a traveling salesman when the company goes bankrupt. This adds to his worries at home. His wife Cora is frigid because of trying to make ends meet. His teenage daughter Reenie is afraid of going out on dates, but eventually makes friends with a troubled Jewish boy Sammy Golden, and his son is a mama's boy. He finally storms out of the house when Cora falsely accuses him of having an affair with Mavis Pruitt. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1960 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of The Dark at the Top of the Stairs has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Dark at the Top of the Stairs sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for The Dark at the Top of the Stairs (1960): with an audience rating of 6.4/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Apple TV
Amazon VideoAnalyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, The Dark at the Top of the Stairs stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1960 cinematic year.
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs 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.
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs 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.
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs is a Drama movie that follows: In Oklahoma in the 1920s, Rubin Flood loses his job as a traveling salesman when the company goes bankrupt. This adds to his worries at home. His wife Cora is frigid because of trying to make ends mee...
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
The Dark at the Top of the Stairs is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
In Oklahoma in the 1920s, Rubin Flood loses his job as a traveling salesman when the company goes bankrupt. This adds to his worries at home. His wife Cora is frigid because of trying to make ends meet. His teenage daughter Reenie is afraid of going out on dates, but eventually makes friends with a troubled Jewish boy Sammy Golden, and his son is a mama's boy. He finally storms out of the house when Cora falsely accuses him of having an affair with Mavis Pruitt.
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