What happens when you take one of the most valuable diamonds in England, seal it in a coffin, put it on a train — and then invite Sherlock Holmes along for the ride?
Answer: Terror by Night, one of the most atmospheric and suspenseful entries in the classic Holmes film series starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce.
This time, the legendary detective isn’t chasing clues through foggy London streets — he’s trapped on a moving train, with a murder to solve, a jewel to protect, and a killer on board.
The Plot
Lady Margaret Carstairs is traveling with the priceless “Star of Rhodesia” diamond. Sherlock Holmes has been hired to ensure its safety aboard a train bound for Scotland.
But when her son is found murdered, the jewel goes missing, and suspects begin piling up, Holmes finds himself in a race against time — and rails — to catch the killer before the next stop.
Classic elements: locked-room mystery, identity twists, and a fog-drenched finale you won’t forget.
The Cast
- Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes – calm, brilliant, razor-sharp as ever
- Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson – loveably bumbling but loyal and brave
- Alan Mowbray as Major Duncan-Bleek – mysterious and charming
- Renie Riano as Vivien Vedder – a nervous companion with secrets of her own
Fun Fact: This was the second-to-last Sherlock Holmes film made by Rathbone and Bruce, and it’s a fan favorite for its tight pacing and classic Agatha Christie vibes.
Why You’ll Love It
- 🚂 A train setting that keeps the suspense rolling (literally)
- 💎 A diamond theft with deadly consequences
- 🔍 Rathbone’s Holmes at his coolest and most cunning
It’s 60 minutes of pure mystery, and every second counts.
Watch Terror by Night on Oldies-TV
This fan-favorite Holmes mystery is available in:
- Original version — with vintage grain and classic flair
- Enhanced version — digitally sharpened for modern viewing
Watch Terror by Night Now →
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Coming from Another Case?
If you’ve just watched Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon or The Woman in Green — this is your perfect next case.
Though not a direct sequel, Terror by Night continues the fast-paced, post-war Holmes stories that made Rathbone a legend.
Ready for another deduction?
All aboard — the mystery is departing now.
