The Dark Mirror - Star of the month... Olivia de Havilland

'The Dark Mirror' is a 1946 psychological thriller directed by Robert Siodmark, and starring Olivia de Havilland and Lew Ayres with Thomas Mitchell.

Olivia de Havilland plays identical twins
Terry & Ruth Collins

After a doctor is murdered, witnesses identify one of identical twins Terry and Ruth Collins (both played by de Havilland) with the murder victim, just before his death. Matters are complicated when both twins refuse to turn in the other by each providing an alibi.


Lt. Stevenson (played by Mitchell) brings in psychiatrist and twin expert Dr. Scott Elliott (played by Ayres) to investigate and uncover the truth.

Did you know...

• This was Lew Ayres' return to the screen after servicing in World War II

Award nominations

• Academy Award nomination for Best Writing - Original Story

Closing remarks

Despite being another evil twin film of the 1940's, along with 'A Stolen Life' (1946) and 'The Two Mrs. Carrolls' (1947), I like the way in which 'The Dark Mirror' manipulates the viewer. There are many moments when we are unsure of which sister is which, and are often surprised and shocked when the truth is revealed.  Although the ending is predictable, 'The Dark Mirror' is a satisfying viewing experience.