Who Oscar Didn't Recognize, Tony Did

With Hollywood behind him and television following a similar route, Robert Montgomery moved to the stage - not to star but to direct and produce. One of his more successful Broadway works was based on Joseph Hayes' hit suspense novel The Desperate Hours.

The Desperate Hours is the story of an Indianapolis family who have their home invaded by escaping convicts. IMO, not your typical fare for a stage play.

After the 1954 novel's success was recognized, a Broadway production and film version came out the following year. Directed by William Wyler and starring Humphrey Bogart and Fredric March, the film version can be found on DVD.

The Broadway version of the story was directed by Robert Montgomery and included Karl Malden as the family's father and a young Paul Newman in the "ring leader" role Bogie played.

With 212 total performances under its belt, The Desperate Hours earned two Tony Awards for 1955: Best Play - Joseph Hayes and Best Direction - Robert Montgomery.

Read Time magazine's Feb. 21, 1955 review of the Broadway production.