Director: Sacha Gervasi
Writer: John J. McLaughlin (based off book by Stephen Rebello)
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren, Scarlett Johansson
‘Brilliant Hitchcock Biopic’
There’s a magnificent, award-worthy scene in Sacha Gervasi’s “Hitchcock”. It involves Alfred Hitchcock (Anthony Hopkins) orchestrating the shower scene for his movie “Psycho”. He is standing outside a cinema that is screening “Psycho”, waiting for something to happen. When loud music echoes out of the theatre, Hitchcock starts orchestrating the scene like a crazy man. What he doesn’t realize is he is being watched by a puzzled and confused janitor of the cinema.
This is a very memorable scene that gives you an idea of the engaging and humorous tone for the rest of the film.
Alfred Hitchcock is one of the greatest directors in the world. He has created influential and inspiring films that are known today as classics. Being a hardcore fan of Hitchcock’s work as a filmmaker, I went into “Hitchcock” with great expectations. Having seen “Psycho”, one of my favorite movies of all time, I felt that this film would surely be a treat.
“Hitchcock” is an entertaining, but seemingly incomplete film. In other words, its like a piece of cake, perhaps too small to fully satisfy. Starring Anthony Hopkins in the main role, “Hitchcock” centers on the relationship between acclaimed director Alfred Hitchcock and is wife Alma Reville during the filming of “Psycho” in 1959.
When making a movie about a well-known and highly influential person, a director has to realize the stakes. The cast needs to be convincing and the script has to enhance the film. If one of these factors are not strong enough, the film will most likely be alright. “Hitchcock” falls into the category of solid, but improvable film-making. Its an interesting look into Alfred Hitchcock’s life, due to fantastic performances and a fine script. The problem, however, is the screenplay is not profound and lacking material.
Though there are glimpses into the making of “Psycho”, much of the movie focuses on the relationship between Hitchcock and his wife. With a splendid cast, Sacha Gervasi succeeds in bringing to life Alfred Hitchcock’s personal life as well as his stardom. The directorial department is impressive and admirable in almost every aspect. From Jeff Cronenweth’s beautiful cinematography to Danny Elfman’s vibrant soundtrack, its hard not to admire the way “Hitchcock” was put together.
The cast is top-notch, portraying their characters to the highest degree. Anthony Hopkins is absolutely fantastic in the role of Alfred Hitchcock. Although he does not resemble the director in terms of looks, Hopkins still captures the demeanor and mannerisms of Hitchcock flawlessly. The opening scene of “Hitchcock” illustrates this by a fantastic introduction to the filmmaker. The “Good Evening” line demonstrates this, showing what will be in store for audiences later in the movie. Hopkins is impressive and one of the main reasons to see the film.
Helen Mirren is brilliant in the role of Hitchcock’s wife. Elegant, charming, and deeply graceful, Mirren proves that she is one of the best actresses working in Hollywood today. Her chemistry with Anthony Hopkins’ character is strong and very necessary. Without these great stars, this film may not have been as likeable or praiseworthy.
The rest of the cast includes very convincing Scarlett Johansson and notable Jessica Biel.
Despite being entertaining and engaging from start to finish, “Hitchcock” is far from perfect. It’s missing depth and the amount of material in the film is not sufficient. I wish the filmmakers drew their attention more to the making of “Psycho” and Hitchcock’s life as a director, rather than the relationship with his wife. There is also an unnecessary plot thread that continues throughout the movie. It’s out of place and rather unneeded.
Nevertheless, this movie is still worth watching for anyone interested in the subject matter. Its sharp and entertaining, but a bit too shallow in terms of scriptwriting.
At a time when modern audiences have forgotten about Alfred Hitchcock, it’s a psychotic tribute which offers a rear window glimpse into the psyche of a filmmaker whose timeless movies about which people still talk haven’t lost abilities to shock.
3,5/5 stars
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