Vertigo

Starring: James Stewart, Kim Novak
Directed by: Alfred Hitchcock
Rating: PG
Genre: Thriller
1958

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: After a rooftop chase which nearly ends in his death, a police detective (James Stewart) retires. His retirement is shortlived, however, when an old friend hires him to watch his wife (Kim Novak) and her bizarre behavior. It seems that someone from beyond the grave may be living through her. The race is on to discover if the woman is really possessed, or if there is much more wrong than first appears.

Review:

Tim: Vertigo is one of the best psychological thrillers of all time. Hitchcock is known his multiple tremendous films, but out of all of them, Vertigo is often called his greatest work. The film is interesting, yet also confusing. The confusion is exactly what Hitchcock wants. As you watch, you wonder, "what exactly is going on?" Is the girl possessed or just crazy? Can Scotty (Stewart's character) stop the impending doom, or is it destined to happen? However, this turns out to be just the beginning.

Hitchcock weaves this suspenseful tale masterfully, placing all the chips in the right places, slowly picking up momentum, and then accelerating to breakneck speed.

Hitchcock really utilizes his cast. Jimmy Stewart is hands down one of the best actors of all time and he gives a psychologically complex performance here. When he tries to make the new girl like the old one... man, that is Hitchcock at his best. Stewart delivers exactly as he needs to and makes this film great. Kim Novak equally matches Stewart, playing off him perfectly. Having the two of them together is a wonder to watch.

The only downside to the film is that at times it can be slow. I understand Hitchcock's need to set everything up for the great ending, but at times the movies drags just a bit. However, once the plot really begins to thicken, the film becomes amazing and ends with a surprise bang. This film is simply required viewing.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 9



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
It's a Wonderful Life, High Anxiety, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, The African Queen, Psycho, Rear Window