Hitchcock

Alfred Hitchcock's latest film, North by Northwest, was a huge success. But now what? Everyone wants him to make another North by Northwest but Hitchcock (played by Anthony Hopkins) wants to do something different, something bold and shocking. He stumbles upon the idea for his next movie when he reads Robert Bloch's 1959 novel, Psycho. Despite lacking the support of Hollywood executives, Hitchcock is determined to make this movie. His relationship with his wife, Alma (played by Helen Mirren), is tested as movie production begins to spiral out of control.

As a self-proclaimed history buff and film enthusiast, the chances were high that I would enjoy Hitchcock. It was a wonderful movie experience--easily one of the best that I've had in a long time. There is so much to love about this film, it's a little hard to know where to start. Ironically, Hitchcock--a film about the process behind the creation of one of the most iconic horror films ever--is, at its core, a love story. Although seriously lacking in the blood and gore departments, the movie does begin with a bang that even the great Alfred Hitchcock would not see coming. And, of course, I do mean this literally. Director Sacha Gervarsi successfully turns back the clock and creates a compelling and smart story thanks to the contribution of the costume, makeup, set, art departments, and of course the acting. It is not necessary to have seen the film Psycho or be familiar with Hitchcock's work to appreciate the film but I would be lying to say that this background information doesn't help. It was fascinating to get a behind-the-scenes peak at what goes on during the making of a film. The story wanders a bit as Hitchcock has conversations with the serial killer who inspired the novel (played by Miachel Wincott) in his head. It was a curious addition to the film but a little unnecessary.
  
The acting on the other hand was nothing short of outstanding. It would be a surprise--and a mystery--if both Hopkins and Mirren weren't nominated for Oscars for their respective roles as Hitchcock and Alma. While Hopkins psychical transformation on screen is more startling than Mirren's, both actors immerse themselves so effortlessly and completely into the plot and their roles. It was refreshing to see such a strong female character during a time period with such gender inequality and especially in such a male dominated field like directing and movie production. Mirren perfectly captures Alma's struggles on screen while not compromising her strength or her femininity. Hopkins portrays the legendary director as a complex  human being--both supporting and contradicting the dictatorial and obsessive caricature that is so well-known in pop culture.
     

 
The ending is a bit cliche but audiences will no doubt leave the theater with smiles on their faces. Hitchcock is certainly the most unexpected feel-good movie this holiday season and it is definitely worth the time and the money. Besides...it's Anthony Hopkins and Helen Mirren! Do I need to say more?

Go see Hitchcock in theaters now! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my style blog! What is your favorite Alfred Hitchcock movie? Leave a comment below!

FTC: I was lucky enough to attend a screening of Hitchcock before the movie was released. I have no affiliation with Fox Searchlight Pictures.