Review of The 39 Steps (1935) by Mirko B — 09 May 2011
Hitchock's 1935 take on John Buchan's classic "39 steps" is one of his masterpieces. A story about one Richard Hannay's quest to clear his reputation, save his life and prevent the leaking of some classified information. Hitchcock got us used to certain things in his films which are not betrayed in this film either: a dark, gloomy leading man, an ice-cold blonde bomb shell, a murder, and a lot of suspense. Though Madeleine Carroll is far from Grace Kelly's level of effect, she does deliver satisfactorily and and ultimately has a change of heart about Richard's guilt. The scene's with the train and the Forth bridge are a masterpiece of cinematic photography.
Hitchcock did alter the story a bit though: in his version, the assassinated agent at the beginning is a woman, not a man.
This review of The 39 Steps (1935) was written by Mirko B on 09 May 2011.
The 39 Steps has generally received very positive reviews.
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