Beyond This Place (novel)
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature |
| Founded | 1950 |
| Founder | A. J. Cronin |
| Products | Novel |
Beyond This Place is a novel authored by the Scottish writer A. J. Cronin, initially released in 1950. The edition tailored for Australia and New Zealand was published in 1953. An abridged serial version appeared in Collier's magazine under the alternative title To Live Again.
Plot summary
Paul Mathry, a soon-to-be graduate preparing to embark on a teaching profession, uncovers that his father was convicted of murder—a fact concealed from him by his mother. Intent on visiting his father, Paul discovers that prison visitation is prohibited.
He delves into the details of the case, encountering various witnesses, some of whom are uncooperative. With the assistance of Lena, a shop assistant, and a journalist, Paul persists despite numerous obstacles. His efforts eventually result in an appeal that exonerates his father, Rees Mathry, who begins to see a chance for redemption.
Adaptations
This novel has inspired several film and television versions. The 1955 Bengali movie Sabar Uparey featured Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen. The 1958 Hindi film Kala Pani, directed by Raj Khosla, starred Dev Anand and Madhubala. The 1994 movie Suhaag, directed by Kuku Kohli and starring Ajay Devgn alongside Akshay Kumar, was also influenced by this story.
The British cinematic adaptation titled Web of Evidence (1959), directed by Jack Cardiff, included Van Johnson and Vera Miles in its cast. A 1957 CBS television production overseen by David Susskind and directed by Sidney Lumet featured Farley Granger and Shelley Winters. Regional renditions include the 1967 Telugu film Poola Rangadu, directed by Adurthi Subba Rao with ANR and Jamuna, as well as the 1970 Tamil movie En Annan, starring MGR.