Review of Vertigo (1958) by Blake P — 17 Aug 2011

Stewart portrays Scottie Ferguson, an ex-cop whos terrified of heights because of a horrible experience. His friend (Bel Geddes) helps him try to get over his fear, and really supports him throughout life.

Along the way, a man asks Scottie to use his detective skills to follow his wife Madeline (Novak) because she's been acting strangely lately. But while that job happens, he begins to fall in love with her, until a twist happens.

Alfred Hitchcock's career was really close to its peak, and would soon climb in the later "Psycho". Personally this is not my favorite Hitch film compared to "Rebecca" or "Rear Window", but it's still very good.

At the time of its making, both critics and audiences weren't sure if they liked it or not, getting a lukewarm response, opposite of what it is now. Like I said, this is not his greatest, but it deserves every single award it gets.

Every minute is creative and innovative, and is more artistic than most of his films. The VistaVision here looks very different than the earlier "To Catch a Thief"-- it looks so dreamy here, giving it a far away effect.

When you add the haunting score into the mix, every technical thing is in top form. James Stewart's career was waning at this point, and even though he was still considered Hollywood royalty in '58, he was not the leading man he used to be.

I really consider this to be his last amazing performance. Kim Novak proves to be overrated here, more known for her looks than her acting skills. However, she does a superb job, and though not as versatile as Barbara Stanwyck or Carole Lombard, she does her best.

"Vertigo" is a great look in Alfred Hitchcocks career, although I do not recommend for first time viewers-- start with "Dial M for Murder".