Review of The 39 Steps (1935) by Alan M — 11 Apr 2008
John Buchan's popular novel, The 39 Steps, has been adapted for the big screen on three occasions, but Alfred Hitchcock's exquisite 1935 original is still comfortably the best.
Hitchcock took certain liberties with the source material, using it as a springboard for his own ideas, with the intention of creating suspense for the audience. However, John Buchan later admitted that he was very happy with Hitchcock's vision of his novel and it is easy to see why.
The outcome is a sensational, fast-paced adventure, brimming with exciting sequences, most notably the chase on the train that culminates on The Forth Rail Bridge.
It is also the first Hitchcock movie to explore a favoured theme that would become very prominent throughout his career; that of the innocent hero on the run from the law and/or the villains.
The 39 Steps is terrific fun and a sure sign of what was to come in later years from the master.
This review of The 39 Steps (1935) was written by Alan M on 11 Apr 2008.
The 39 Steps has generally received very positive reviews.
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