Review of Dial M for Murder (1954) by Chris W — 26 May 2011

This might sound a little odd or redundant, but this film is very Hitchcockian. It's also very, very British. And fun. It's very twisty and turny, and you kind of have to pay attention to follow it, but all in all, this is a first-rate thriller.

The most surprising thing about it all is how almost the entire film takes place in a single setting, yet, it really holds your interest and maintains a pretty high level of suspense and intrigue. I could have done with a bit more action and a little less talking, but that's an extremely minor gripe.

The plot's been recycled many times since (dude plots to kill his wife, plan goes horribly awry), but none of those have been able, it seems, to match this one. Chalk it up to many factors, one of the biggest being Hitch himself. (and no, that was not a jab at his size). The performances are great, and I enjoyed the look. The music's pretty damn sweet, too. I will say that even though the film is good at holding one's attention, it still seems to be in need of being a bit tighter, so I'm torn on the rating. I'll give it a 5, but let's grade it as the most miniscule A- ever.

Regardless of how I score it, go see it. It's awesome.