The Lady Vanishes
Movie • 1938 • 96 min
NR
"Comedy! Chills! Chuckles! in a Mystery Express!"
On a train headed for England a group of travelers is delayed by an avalanche. Holed up in a hotel in a fictional European country, young Iris befriends elderly Miss Froy. When the train resumes, Iris suffers a bout of unconsciousness and wakes to find the old woman has disappeared. The other passengers ominously deny Miss Froy ever existed, so Iris begins to investigate with another traveler and, as the pair sleuth, romantic sparks fly.
What viewers say
Viewers praise The Lady Vanishes as a stylish, funny and suspenseful early Hitchcock, with a clever train mystery, a charming romance, quick wit and enjoyable twists. Many say it still looks great decades later despite its small budget. The most common complaint is a slow opening act before the lady disappears, though most say it pays off once the mystery kicks in. A few viewers also find the strong British accents hard to follow.
Best for: Viewers who like classic, witty train mysteries with a light touch.
Summary of public viewer reviews, updated November 2026.
mysterythriller
📺 Where to Watch
🎬 Watch Trailer
Trailer hosted on YouTube. Click play to load.
🎭 Cast
Margaret Lockwood as Iris Matilda Henderson
Michael Redgrave as Gilbert Redman
Paul Lukas as Dr. Hartz
May Whitty as Miss Froy
Basil Radford as Charters
Naunton Wayne as Caldicott
Cecil Parker as Eric Todhunter
Linden Travers as 'Mrs.' Margaret Todhunter