Review of Rope (1948) by Danny R — 15 Dec 2010

A gripping classic thriller inspired by the real-life Leopold-Loeb murder case, brilliantly directed by the master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock. about two young men played by Farley Granger and John Dall who both deliver splendid performances, they murder their prep-school friend by strangling him with piece of rope for the sheer thrill of it, and then throw a big party for the victim's family and friends, with his body stuffed inside a trunk which they are using as a buffet table, as a means to challenge themselves and their "perfect murder.

" One of their guest is their former teacher played wonderfully by James Stewart who becomes increasingly suspicious, but before the night is over he will discovered the frightening truth, on how his students have turned his academic theories into a murderous reality.

This was Hitchcock's first color film that was shot in ten-minute takes to provide a seamless flow of movement, ingenious cinematography from William V. Skall and Joseph A. Valentine, with a fabulous apartment set design by art director Perry Fergusion.

A very memorable excursion into the macabre. Highly Recommended.