M Husain –
Rear Window is a 1954 American thriller film directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. The movie was based on a short story written by Cornell Woolrich.
James Stewart plays photojournalist L.B. Jefferies in the movie, who is confined to his flat in a wheelchair because of a broken leg. Jeff starts to watch his neighbors via his rear window when he is bored and restless, using his camera lens as a telescope to view their daily activities. Though Jeff initially views it as a harmless hobby, it soon becomes a serious addiction when he starts to believe that one of his neighbors has killed someone.
The film’s setting is an apartment complex in New York City, which Hitchcock uses to great effect. The apartments are like tiny cities, each with its dramas and secrets. The photography of the movie is especially remarkable because Hitchcock and his cinematographer, Robert Burks, use a sequence of protracted, uninterrupted shots to portray the audience the story’s events through Jeff’s point of view.
Rear Window’s examination of voyeurism’s characteristics is one of its most remarkable features. Although Jeff originally portrays spying on his neighbors as a harmless method to kill time, it soon becomes clear that he is enjoying the experience immensely. His relationship with his lover Lisa Fremont (played by Grace Kelly), who becomes an active participant in his voyeuristic actions, further enhances this enjoyment.
The voyeuristic character of Jeff’s actions becomes increasingly obvious as the movie goes on. He grows more and more preoccupied with his neighbors’ life, spending hours upon hours observing them from his window. Even further, based only on his observations, he goes so far as to formulate complex theories about their lives and intentions.
As a result of his obsession, Jeff finally comes to believe that his neighbor Lars Thorwald (Raymond Burr), killed his wife. Jeff gets fixated on proving his idea, despite the police’s doubts and even Lisa’s own. He spends hours combing over his photos, looking for proof to back up his assertions.
In a tense and dramatic sequence that serves as the film’s conclusion, Jeff’s infatuation with Thorwald ultimately reaches an all-time high. He asks Lisa and his nurse Stella (Thelma Ritter) for assistance in breaking into Thorwald’s residence and obtaining proof of his guilt. The action is captured in a succession of protracted takes that increase the tension to nearly excruciating heights.
Finally, Jeff’s suspicions are proven correct, and Thorwald is taken into custody for killing his wife. The disturbing impression that Jeff’s voyeuristic behavior has not been adequately addressed remains after the movie’s closing scene, though. He has not overcome his fascination as he sits in his flat and observes his neighbors. He has merely moved on to the following group of folks to observe.
The story of the movie is really simple. There was no use of graphics, visual effects, or advanced technology. What makes this film interesting and attractive are the dialogues, intense situations, acting skills, and above all imagination and creativity of director, Alfred Hitchcock.
It is a model film for present film producers. You do not need a lot of budget, advanced equipment, or a lot of set scenes to make a masterpiece. The movie progresses slowly, letting the audience get acquainted with different scenes, neighbors, and situations of Jeff.
Simple dialogues between Jeff, Lisa, and Stella would make the audience feel like seeing them talking in upfront. Natural, small talks about things and genuine facial expressions give entertainment.
The movie was fun to watch because of the acting of James Stewart. He was perfect as the character Jeff. Aside from all other performances, the lust for seeing a woman through a window was seen accurately on his face. Grace Kelly and Thelma Ritter also showed promising acting skills and performance. Raymond Burr was able to perform great in his character Lars Thorwald. Roughness, intelligent approach, and determination to destroy evidence were seen clearly in his eyes and facial expression. Aside from these characters, other characters played an important role and showed impact in progressing the story.
The dialogues were subtle enough to get a hold of the situation. One of the attractive elements of the film was the dialogue. The audience can feel emotions in those dialogues. Especially dialogues between Jeff and Lisa were particularly mentionable. As if they could understand each other well and knew what to say next. Sometimes they quarreled about choosing family life or debated about different scenes they saw through their window. These dialogues were simple but still had a great impact on the story.
The cinematography was great in one word. Dark in some scenes, while beautiful in some scenes. It is really hard to cast a full film in a room and the premise of a flat. But Alfred Hitchcock did that with skills and creativity.
The costume used by the actor and actress matches the trends, tastes, and culture of that time. Elegant Western touch could be observed in interior design, food, clothes, and the structure of buildings and roads.
The movie progresses at a slow pace. In the first part of the movie, neighbors and their lifestyle, the different scenario at the premise, and the weather was focused, on so that audience get used to the style and story of the movie. Jeff’s room, rooms, and the movement of neighbors in the opposite buildings were focused on creativity. The movement of dogs and dialogues between neighbors on the lawn was included too.
Rear Window is one of the greatest creations of Alfred Hitchcock. He showed his talent and creativity in his creation. The genre of the movie was mystery and thriller. It would take on a journey of intense thrill, suspense, and fun. The budget for this movie was only 1 million dollars but it raised 37 million dollars at the Box office.
Rear Window is a simple movie with an end that can be predicted. But what makes it a masterpiece is the journey that Jeff, Lisa, Stella, and Lars will take the audience on. You do not need to have high intellectual abilities to understand the theme. It is a relaxing film you can watch with your family. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the art of cinema.
