Rear Window (1954) Dir: Alfred Hitchcock
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Ever since I first watched this during a film studies class in college, it has been one of my favourite films. In my opinion, it is Alfred Hitchcock's greatest film.
The simple but effective camerawork allows the audience to see precisely what they are supposed to and when, while also keeping a keen sense of mystery, and utilises its limited setting to its full potential.
Add to this Hitchcock's unbeatable talent for building suspense, as well as two exemplary performances, and you have a truly excellent piece of cinema.
The narrative builds at a steady pace, and features plenty of red herrings and clues to keep audiences guessing.
James Stewart was one of the best of his generation, and performances such as the one he gives here are good evidence of that. He has everything you want out of a Hitchcock protagonist; he's charismatic, dramatic and witty.
Grace Kelly is superb and stunning in her role. She has tremendous comedic timing that works so well with Stewart's wit. Furthermore, she has a way of feeling so genuine and believable in how she acts, that you forget she's even acting - a rare talent.
I'll also give deserving mentions to the three supporting performances from Thelma Ritter, Wendell Corey and Raymond Burr, which were all very good.
Overall, as stated above, I believe this to be Hitchcock's best film, and consistently places among my top ten films ever. The quality of filmmaking and acting, as well as the rewatchability of it, place it a tier above nearly everything else.
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