Bill Saunders, played by Burt Lancaster, is a troubled and haunted man who is released from being a prisoner of war in Korea. He struggles to adjust to his new life back in England and often resorts to violence and heavy drinking. One night, while at a pub, Bill gets into a fight with another patron and accidentally kills him by hitting him with a glass ashtray.
Panicked, Bill flees the scene and eventually ends up in a hospital where he meets Jane Wharton, played by Joan Fontaine. Jane is a kind and compassionate nurse who sees potential in Bill and believes that he is not a dangerous criminal. She helps him escape from the hospital and provides him with a place to stay, hoping to help him change his ways.
As Bill and Jane spend more time together, they develop feelings for one another and begin a romance. However, their happiness is short-lived when the police catch up with Bill and he is forced to go on the run once again.
Kiss the Blood Off My Hands is a film noir thriller that explores the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and self-discovery. The performances by Burt Lancaster and Joan Fontaine are both gripping and nuanced, making the film a must-watch for fans of the genre.