The Doll (1975)

The Doll is a gripping 1975 British television thriller that showcases the masterful storytelling of Francis Durbridge, a titan of suspense known for his intricate plots and unexpected twists. Originally broadcast as a three-part serial under the Francis Durbridge Presents banner on the BBC, this drama-crime hybrid follows Peter Matty (John Fraser), a successful publisher whose life unravels after a chance encounter with the enigmatic Phyllis Du Salle (Anouska Hempel) on a flight to London. Produced in the United Kingdom, the 180-minute production—split across three hour-long episodes—delivers a quintessential Durbridge experience, blending psychological tension with a labyrinthine mystery. The story ignites when Phyllis, a captivating widow shrouded in secrets, vanishes shortly after captivating Matty, sparking his obsessive quest to uncover her fate. Aided by his brother Claude (Geoffrey Whitehead) and hindered by a trail of red herrings—like a photograph that appears and disappears from a shop window—Matty navigates a web of deception involving a sinister doll and a cast of dubious characters, including the authoritative Sir Arnold (Cyril Luckham). Anouska Hempel’s mesmerizing performance as Phyllis anchors the serial, her elusive allure driving Matty—and the audience—into a whirlwind of intrigue, while Fraser’s portrayal of a man teetering on the edge of obsession keeps the stakes personal and palpable. Airing in late 1975, The Doll exemplifies the golden era of British television thrillers, its clever plotting and atmospheric direction by David Askey earning it a devoted following, despite limited availability today (notably preserved on a German DVD release with English audio). Its production in the UK reflects Durbridge’s knack for crafting suspense that resonates across borders, a testament to his popularity in Europe. For fans of vintage crime dramas or those who relish a puzzle that defies prediction until the final frame, The Doll remains a captivating relic of 1970s storytelling, as thrilling now as it was nearly five decades ago.