Review of Stage Fright (1950) by Patryk C — 15 Sep 2012
What could have been a major letdown by Hitch is lifted greatly by the antics of Alastair Sim. Hitchcock doesn't really excel much with this one at all. There are the ups and the downs.
The story starts with Jonathan Conner. He is on the run from the police after being spotted at the scene of a murder. He seeks refuge with is ex-girlfriend, Eve Gill. He insists he is innocent, that he was framed by Charlotte Inwood (Marlene Dietrich playing Marlene Dietrich.) Eve believes him and sets out do uncover the real murderer.
Jane Wyman plays Eve. She is perfectly adequate, nothing more. The reason to watch this movie though, is Alastair Sim as Eve's father. He steals absolutely every scene he's in. Sim, best known for playing Scrooge, is hilarious in this. A personal favorite scene is when he must put blood on a doll's dress. He thinks slitting his palm is the best way to get the blood. His smile slowly fades into a frown after the slit. Spot on reaction.
Overall, not very good, really. The ending has a nice twist, but a Hitchcock movie shouldn't have to ride completely on one performance, no matter how good the performance is.
"I never hope to be appreciated. Yes, your mother cured me of that. That's why I could never be bothered with your mother." 6.5/10.
This review of Stage Fright (1950) was written by Patryk C on 15 Sep 2012.
Stage Fright has generally received positive reviews.
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