Val Lewton: The Man in the Shadows (2007): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2007, Val Lewton: The Man in the Shadows is a tv movie and documentary film directed by Kent Jones, running about 77 minutes. “The story behind the master of psychological terror.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Martin Scorsese narrates this tribute to Val Lewton, the producer of a series of memorable low-budget horror films for RKO Studios. Raised by his mother and his aunt, his films often included strong female characters who find themselves in difficult situations and who have to grow up quickly. He is best remembered for the horror films he made at RKO starting in 1940. Starting with only a title - his first was The Cat People - he would meticulously oversee every aspect of the film's completion. Although categorized as horror films, his films never showed a monster, leaving it all to the viewers imagination, assisted by music, mood and lighting.

Who’s in it. Val Lewton: The Man in the Shadows stars Martin Scorsese as Narrator, Elias Koteas as Voice of Val Lewton, Glen Gabbard as Himself - Interviewee (as Dr. Glen Gabbard) and Roger Corman as Self, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.1/10, Val Lewton: The Man in the Shadows has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Val Lewton: The Man in the Shadows page.

If you liked it. Fans of Val Lewton: The Man in the Shadows tend to enjoy Miraculous World: New York, United HeroeZ, Sherlock: The Abominable Bride, Steven Universe: The Movie and Twin Peaks.