The Open Doors

Framton Nuttel (Sheen) enters the house of Mrs Sappleton (Lunghi). He is a young man from London suffering from nervous exhaustion, and he goes to the countryside for some prescribed rest. He decides to call upon Mrs Sappleton, an acquaintance of his sister's.

He is shown to the parlour by Mrs Sappleton's niece, Vera (Ritchie), who entertains him while he awaits the appearance of his host. Vera tells a story, the terrible tragedy of Mr Sappleton and his sons. He is told how they went out hunting in the marshes, and were lost in a fog three years earlier. Their bodies were never found, but the mistress of the house insists that the French windows are left open every day until dusk, praying and hoping that one day they will return.

Mrs Sappleton arrives in the room, and quite blithely references that the doors are left open in expectation of her husband and sons. Nuttell and Vera exchange a knowing look. Tea is served while Mrs Sappleton reads Framton's letter of introduction. As they sit, trying to make polite conversation, Framton notices figures emerging from the mist and heading towards the open doors.

Mrs Sappleton exclaims in surprise and delight, but the look of horror on Framton's face is obvious. He drops his tea cup and leaves the room and house as fast as he can.

When Mr Sappleton inquires after the guest he saw leaving in a hurry, Mrs Sappleton explains that he was visiting the country for his health but that she thought he was an odd man. Vera continues to explain his sudden departure as being caused by the dogs they had with them. She explains that he had spent a terrible night some years ago being chased by a pack of wild dogs. The film finishes with Vera giving the camera a cheeky knowing glance.

• Michael Sheen – Framton Nuttel
• Charlotte Ritchie – Vera
• Cherie Lunghi – Mrs Sappleton
• Martin Bishop – Mr Sappleton
• Ben Lambert – Hugh Sappleton
• Charlie Grant Peterkin – Ronnie Sappleton

• The Open Doors at IMDb
• The British Films Catalogue
• Full Feature on YouTube