There’’s a Body in the Window Seat!: The History of Arsenic and Old Lace

There’s a Body in the Window Seat! is a detailed history of one of the most beloved American murder-mysteries and comedies, Arsenic and Old Lace. Actor, director, and playwright Charles Dennis investigates the mystery behind the play: how did a true-life crime in Connecticut turn into a comedy? And who are the real writers that deserve credit for its long-lasting success? Dennis brings an insider’s view to Joseph Kesselring’s attempts to write Arsenic and Old Lace and how producers had to step in to save the play from his heavy hand. He also follows the actors, both on the stage and on the screen, as they handle the demands of the roles and behind-the-scenes relationships. Why didn’t Boris Karloff recreate his stage role, even though Jean Adair and John Alexander did? Why did Cary Grant hate his performance in Arsenic-was it because Frank Capra deceived him or because of costume designer Orry Kelly? And why did the movie never receive Academy Award consideration? Learn the answers to these intriguing questions and more in There’s a Body in the Window Seat!

Charles Dennis is an author, playwright, filmmaker, actor, and voice artist. He has written several novels, including Hollywood Raj, The Magiker, and Given the Crime. His play, Going On, has been produced in New York, London, and Los Angeles. His prize-winning movies include Barking Mad and Hard Four. He has appeared on Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Voyager. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife Ulrika Vingsbo-Dennis.