Review of Shadow of a Doubt (1943) by Chris R — 30 Jun 2008
What lurks in the shadows of your own home?
This was one of the first Hitchcock films I've ever seen. I saw it once when I was sick and at home in the fourth grade (in case your wondering that was a long long time ago). So understandably, I didn't remember much of it, so when I watched it the other night, it was almost like watching a new movie for me...And I have to say, I loved it the first time I saw it, and I loved the second time I saw it.
The Story: A young woman, finds out that her favorite uncle is a ruthless killer. At first she doesn't want to believe it, but it becomes clear to her, that her beloved Uncle Charlie isn't the man she and her family thought he was. It's one of my personal favorite Hitchcock films, partly due to the fact that it was one of the first I'd seen, but also because I love the story. What's more terrifying than a killer in the one place you can truly feel safe? The cinematography is great, and the lighting really makes uncle Charlie look evil. It gets from point A to point B in no time, you won't find any time to be bored with it. An all around great film.
The Cast: Teresa Wright, Joseph Cotten...There's more people in the cast but these are the only two that you're really going care about. Joseph Cotten is Uncle Charlie, the charismatic killer. He's so undeniably good at this role that, you'll have no choice but to fear him. Teresa Wright is young Charlie, Uncle Charlies favorite niece. You'll feel such a great connection with her, that you'll actually fear for her life as she's becomes aware of the danger she's in once she solves the mystery of her favorite uncle. These two have great chemistry on screen, Hitchcock knew how to cast people back in the day.
One to Five Scale: 5.
One of the best Hitchcock films ever made. If you've never seen a movie of his, this one is a great place to start. Every so often at movie stores, you'll find these old movies as re-releases on DVD or even VHS, and if you ever stumble across this one, don't hesitate to pick it up.
Tyler.
This review of Shadow of a Doubt (1943) was written by Chris R on 30 Jun 2008.
Shadow of a Doubt has generally received very positive reviews.
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