Review of Frenzy (1972) by Mark P — 06 Jun 2012

Employing several Hitchcockian devices, Frenzy is a terrific thriller with a wry sense of humor. His return to London to film this story in 1973 reinvigorated the master of suspense. Frenzy features more familiar storytelling than the previous few films, critical and box office disappointments. The audience discovers the killer's identity early on, an innocent man is accused, and food is used as a comic device. The smooth "necktie killer" is infatuated with women linked to the accused. On this point, I am reminded of similar plots in Eastwood's Tightrope and Bruce Willis' Striking Distance, both released years after Frenzy. Also, the handsome, charming killer played by Barry Foster reminds me of Ted Bundy.

Frenzy feels like a fresh re-take on many earlier Hitchcock films, among them 1943's Shadow of a Doubt. Also, the killer's mislaid tie pin is reminiscent of the cigarette lighter in Strangers on a Train. The most obvious update is the level of sex, nudity, and graphic violence. This R rated film graphically displays what earlier films could only hint at. Featuring palpable tension throughout and Hitchcock's trademark dark humor, Frenzy is an excellent film. It may deserve more than an 80, but I'm awarding that score in relation to his masterpieces.