Rear Window

1954

Starring: James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey,Thelma Ritter, Raymond Burr

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

Overview:

L. B. (Jeff) Jeffries is a photojournalist who, due to a broken leg, is confined to his apartment for several weeks. He passes the time by observing his neighbors from the back window of his Greenwich Village apartment. One fateful night, he hears a scream and what he observes afterwards is some suspicious behavior from one of his neighbors, leading him to believe a murder has occurred.

Review:

This is one of Hitchcock's best films. It's enjoyable from the opening credits with the lively and sophisticated jazz music to the climactic ending.

The perspective is especially unique as most of the shots are from the rear window of Jeff's apartment into the courtyard and the back windows of the brownstones surrounding the courtyard. Due to the heat and humidity, all of the windows are open.

Jeff has come to learn a little bit about all of his neighbors. There is "Miss Torso" the ballet dancer who is the "eat, drink and be merry" type, the salesman and his wife who seem to have a tumultuous relationship, the struggling songwriter, a newlywed couple who always have the blinds closed and "Miss Lonely Hearts".

James Stewart is an actor who doesn't appear to be acting. His performance is superb as

L.B. Jeffries.

Grace Kelly is his high society girlfriend, Lisa Fremont. Jeff calls their relationship into question as he feels she's "too perfect" to fit into his world. Her wardrobe, designed by Edith Head, is stunning.

Thelma Ritter is charming as the sharp tongued and quick witted insurance nurse, Stella.

Jeff's detective friend, Doyle, played by Wendall Corey, is dismissive of Jeff's suspicions, but offers to help in any way he can.

The set design and lighting is wonderfully moody and nour-ish.

The soundtrack is mostly ambient noise from the other apartments and passing traffic, which gives this movie a more realistic feel.

True Hitchcock, the suspense and story lines build to a terrifying and satisfying conclusion.

Closing Thoughts:

This is one of my all time favorite movies. I love how Hitchcock takes a mundane and often charming setting and makes it suspenseful and diabolical. His characters are believable, sympathetic and even lovable.

Keep your eye out in the opening scene for a little dog in the alley. He plays a pivotal role.