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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for The Stranger (1946). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.


War crimes commissioner Wilson is on a critical mission, driven by a fierce determination to track down and bring to justice those elusive Nazi war criminals who believe they can escape the hangman’s noose. Seeking an unconventional approach, he decides to use Konrad Meinike, played by Konstantin Shayne, as bait. By granting Meinike his freedom, Wilson aims to follow him to his dangerous contacts from the war. Meinike, who is haunted by profound guilt for his actions during the tumultuous times of the war, has found solace and redemption in Christianity.

Upon his release, Meinike quickly makes his way to a quaint town in Connecticut, where he reaches out to his former Nazi associate, the cunning and sinister Franz Kindler, portrayed by Orson Welles. Kindler is cleverly concealing his true identity by masquerading as the esteemed Professor Charles Rankin. This dual life allows him to blend seamlessly into academic life, living with his charming new wife, Mary. However, the tenuous peace of this idyllic setting is shattered when Meinike approaches Kindler, pleading for him to surrender himself to justice. In a shocking turn of events, the professor, consumed by his dark past, responds violently by strangling Meinike and disposing of his body in the eerie woods nearby.

Believing he is now safe from discovery, Kindler basks in the illusion that no one possesses knowledge of his former life. Yet, unbeknownst to him, Wilson is in town, cleverly disguised as an antiques dealer, with the singular goal of unearthing the malevolent Kindler. What follows is an exhilarating clash of wills and a battle of wits between the relentless commissioner and the devious professor. The tension mounts as the stakes rise, and it becomes a dangerous game of cat and mouse where intelligence and cunning are tested to their limits. The chilling fog of their dark past looms heavily over both men as this gripping story unfolds, drawing you deep into a world of intrigue and moral conflict.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of The Stranger (1946) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.


Wilson's Mission

War crimes commissioner Wilson is tasked with the critical mission of tracking down Nazi war criminals. His objective is clear: to bring these fugitives to justice, utilizing any means necessary.

Using Meinike as Bait

To further his investigation, Wilson decides to free Konrad Meinike, a former Nazi, hoping to use him as bait. Meinike's guilt over his past actions during the war catalyzes his willingness to cooperate in this risky plan.

Meinike’s Transformation

Meinike, who has become a Christian and seeks redemption, travels to a small Connecticut town. He hopes to confront his past and reconnect with former Nazi associate Franz Kindler.

Connecticut

Meeting Kindler

In the small town, Meinike finally locates Kindler, who is now living under the alias of Professor Charles Rankin. Their meeting is tense, as Meinike pleads with Kindler to turn himself in and face justice for their war crimes.

Connecticut

Kindler’s Fatal Response

Rather than listening to Meinike's plea, Kindler reacts violently by strangling his old associate. This act of desperation reveals Kindler's fear and determination to maintain his hidden identity.

Connecticut

Concealing the Body

After killing Meinike, Kindler hides his former associate’s body in the nearby woods. This brutal act of eliminating evidence further cements Kindler's resolve to evade capture at any cost.

Nearby Woods, Connecticut

Wilson’s Arrival

Following Meinike's trail, Wilson arrives in the same Connecticut town, disguised as an antiques dealer. His true intention, however, is to uncover the truth about Kindler and his whereabouts.

Connecticut

Uncovering the Truth

As Wilson pursues his investigation, he gathers clues that point toward Kindler’s real identity. Each interaction with locals brings him closer to revealing the sinister past of the seemingly respectable professor.

Connecticut

The Confrontation Begins

A tense game of cat and mouse begins between Wilson and Kindler. As Wilson gets closer to unmasking Kindler, both men engage in a battle of wits that tests their resolve and cunning.

Kindler's Deception

Despite the mounting evidence against him, Kindler continues to deceive those around him. He struggles to maintain his facade as an innocent professor while the truth looms closer.

Connecticut

Encountering Mary

Kindler’s wife, Mary, is blissfully unaware of her husband's dark past. Her presence complicates Kindler’s attempts to keep his secrets hidden as she becomes a potential vulnerability in his plan.

Increasing Tension

As Wilson gathers more evidence, the tension between him and Kindler intensifies. Wilson's pursuit becomes increasingly dangerous, and both men now realize that their confrontation is inevitable.

The Final Showdown

The story builds toward a dramatic confrontation between Wilson and Kindler. Both their fates hang in the balance as they face off, each driven by their own convictions and past actions.

Connecticut

Justice Served

In a climactic resolution, Wilson's relentless pursuit leads to Kindler's exposure. The conclusion underscores the importance of justice and the haunting shadows of the past.

Connecticut

Characters

Explore all characters from The Stranger (1946). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.


Wilson (Edward G. Robinson)

Wilson is a determined war crimes commissioner dedicated to tracking down Nazi criminals. He showcases resilience and moral conviction as he navigates the dangers of his mission. His character embodies the relentless pursuit of justice, often putting himself at great risk for the greater good.

🕵️‍♂️ Detective ⚖️ Justice Seeker

Konrad Meinike (Konstantin Shayne)

Meinike is a conflicted character, burdened by guilt for his past actions during the war. His transformation into a Christian symbolizes his desire for redemption. He becomes a key figure in the narrative as his choices drive the plot forward, bringing him into confrontation with his former associates.

😔 Redemption 🌍 Conflict

Franz Kindler (Orson Welles)

Kindler, masquerading as Professor Charles Rankin, is a cunning ex-Nazi hiding in plain sight. He embodies the themes of deception and survival, expertly manipulating those around him while struggling against his past. His chilling persona adds a layer of tension and danger to the film.

🎭 Disguise 🔪 Antagonist

Mary (Loretta Young)

Mary is the unsuspecting wife of Kindler, representing innocence amidst the unfolding chaos. Her character’s naivety adds emotional weight, as she remains unaware of her husband's dark past. Her presence highlights the personal stakes involved in the narrative.

❤️ Innocence 🏠 Home

Setting

Learn where and when The Stranger (1946) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.


Time period

The film is set in a post-World War II context, a time when the world is grappling with the aftermath of the war and seeking justice for horrific war crimes. This era is characterized by complex moral dilemmas, as former Nazis attempt to hide their pasts while others fight to bring them to justice.

Location

Connecticut

The movie takes place in a small town in Connecticut, known for its quaint charm and community atmosphere. This setting provides a stark contrast to the dark past of the characters involved. The town embodies a sense of peacefulness, which is disrupted by the unfolding tension of a lurking criminal.

🏡 Small Town 📚 Education

Themes

Discover the main themes in The Stranger (1946). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.


🔍

Justice

The pursuit of justice is a central theme in 'The Stranger.' The character Wilson embodies this quest, diligently seeking out Nazi war criminals to ensure they face the consequences of their actions. The film explores the moral complexities and personal sacrifices involved in the relentless hunt for justice against those who have committed atrocities.

💔

Guilt

Guilt plays a significant role in shaping the characters’ motivations, particularly for Meinike. His internal struggle reflects the emotional and psychological burdens carried by those who have participated in such heinous deeds. The theme of guilt underscores the human capacity for redemption and the challenges of overcoming one's past.

🤔

Identity

Identity is a profound theme within the film, particularly through Kindler's character. Posing as a respectable professor, he hides his true identity, evoking questions about the nature of self and the masks people wear. The struggle between one’s past and present identity illustrates the complexities of human nature.

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