Niagara (1953)

The film opens with a stunning aerial view of Niagara Falls, establishing its powerful presence as the central setting of the story. Cut to Rose Loomis (Marilyn Monroe) and her lover, Patrick (Richard Allan), checking into their honeymoon cottage in Niagara Falls. Unbeknownst to them, the newlywed couple, Ray (Joseph Cotten) and Polly Cutler (Jean Peters), is staying in the cabin next door.

As the day progresses, Rose and Patrick's turbulent relationship becomes evident. It is revealed that Rose wants to end her marriage to George Loomis (Max Showalter) and marry Patrick instead. Meanwhile, Polly becomes suspicious of Rose's behavior and confides in Ray that there is something strange going on.

The next morning, Polly overhears an argument between Rose and Patrick, during which they mention a plan involving a "small package" and taking the boat to a remote island. Polly becomes terrified and informs Ray about it. Fearing for Rose's well-being, Ray decides to confront her, but she tells him to mind his own business.

Later, Ray follows Rose to the riverfront, where he witnesses her meeting with a mysterious man. He then discovers an unoccupied boat connected to his own. Realizing that Rose and Patrick intend to frame him for their plan, Ray tries to warn Polly, but she refuses to believe that Rose could be involved in something criminal. Ray rushes to the police station to report the incident but finds no help there.

Meanwhile, Rose and Patrick convince George to go on a guided tour of the falls, knowing that their plan requires George to be away. As the tour progresses, Rose slips away unnoticed, while George becomes increasingly worried about her. Rose manages to catch up to George and pretends that she was with him the entire time, effectively diverting suspicion.

Back at the cottage, Polly confronts Rose about the boat and the mysterious man. Rose skillfully denies everything, blaming Polly's imagination. Distraught and confused, Polly starts to doubt her own instincts. Ray interrupts their conversation, leading Rose to believe their entire plan is falling apart.

That night, Rose gets dressed in a provocative outfit, planning to seduce Patrick into cooperating with her. As she enters his cottage, he sees through her intentions and discards her. Rose, heartbroken and desperate, goes back to her room.

The next day, Polly receives a letter from Rose, revealing her plan to murder George and run away with Patrick. Polly finally realises the danger they are all in and rushes to find Ray. Meanwhile, Rose lures George to a secluded spot near the falls, pretending they will have a picnic there. George becomes increasingly suspicious and confronts Rose about her intentions.

As Rose raises a gun to shoot George, Ray arrives just in time to intervene. A struggle ensues, during which George manages to throw Rose off balance, resulting in her falling into the river to her death. Ray and George then reconcile, united by their escape from Rose's deadly grasp. The film ends with Ray and Polly together, looking out at Niagara Falls, grateful for escaping the turmoil they found themselves entangled in.