Review of To Catch a Thief (1955) by Alan M — 15 Aug 2008

To Catch a Thief is a luxurious Technicolor extravaganza from Alfred Hitchcock, which is far removed from his gloomy suspense thrillers of the 1940's with which he fashioned his considerable reputation on the world stage.

The movie is bathed in the dazzling sunshine of the French Riviera, smiling down upon Hitchcock and his crew with an opulent glow, as they frolic in the millionaires' playground.

In preparing this movie, Hitchcock was like a master chef, slyly serving up a delectable feast of luscious landscapes and exuberant frivolity, garnished with flamboyant flourishes; all the while basking in his own unashamed indulgence.

Cary Grant and Grace Kelly ease comfortably into the festivities with characteristic charm, infusing proceedings with their glamorous personas that befit the nature of the production.

Grant is suave and assured as 'The Cat', utilising his acrobatic origins to exhibit a feline agility, as well as a virile energy that lends an air of mystery and danger to his character.

Kelly is typically elegant and alluring as the fledgling heiress, preening seductively whilst displaying the poise of a ballerina, as she glides gracefully, on an aura of sophistication, towards the demure Grant.

To Catch a Thief is often unfairly rated in comparison to Hitchcock's master works, such as Rear Window and Vertigo. I believe that this movie and similar types, such as The Trouble with Harry, should be judged on their own merits, within the genre they reside.

To Catch a Thief is a gloriously enjoyable caper that amounts to nothing more than pure escapism. We are transported to the fantastical world of high society, brimming with cat burglars and affluent playboys, all encapsulated in a bubble of pristine locations.