Review of Strangers on a Train (1951) by Francis L — 17 Sep 2012
This might actually be my favorite Hitchcockian thriller ever. With its utmost realistic and thought-provoking story Hitchcock wanted to show the world that even some of the regular folks have their moments of sheer evil.
When given a chance, they're able to construct a plan so diabolical in its simplicity, that its execution may be only a matter of time and a matter of blackmailing and ferocious persuasive skills.
With its drastically spellbinding noir atmosphere, and a mood so tense that it's almost distressing, Strangers on a Train shows a story so unusual, yet, surprisingly, so believable in its deep horror that it makes the viewer contemplate about its purpose and how he/she would react, drawn into a deadly intrigue of the most horrible kind.
Farley Granger is stupendous and the loathsome, but perfectly adequate man, whose murderous plan seems to give him so much fun. Robert Walker is great as the man, who is unwittingly placed in a bizarre situation, without even a chance of turning back.
With is well-written script, beautiful visual sets, memorable scenes (the killing and close-up of the glasses), and Hitchcock's most precise direction, Stranger on a Train marks another milestone in the Master's career.
This review of Strangers on a Train (1951) was written by Francis L on 17 Sep 2012.
Strangers on a Train has generally received very positive reviews.
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