Mr. Callew, a demanding businessman, is resting by the beach when he receives a telephone call from a recently discharged employee. The man is in tears, but the unyielding Callew shows no sympathy, and hangs up on him. Later, when Callew starts to drive home, his car runs off the road at a construction site. When he comes to, Callew is paralyzed. Several persons come by, but he is unable to communicate with them, so they think he is dead. Fully aware of his predicament, he becomes increasingly terrified.

Alfred Hitchcock
Self - Host

Joseph Cotten
William Callew

Raymond Bailey
Ed Johnson

Forrest Stanley
Hubka

Harry Shannon
Dr. Harner

Lane Chandler
Sheriff

James Edwards
Convict
Marvin Press
Chessy

Murray Alper
Lloyd

Mike Ragan
Escaped Convict
Jimmy Weldon
Guard (as Jim Weldon)
Richard Newton
Ambulance Driver

Aaron Spelling
Road Worker

Harry Landers
Coroner

Elzie Emanuel
Escaped Convict