Rear Window (1954)

In 1954, the ‘Master of Suspense’ released what, in my opinion is his masterpiece – even sixty-four years later holding up as incredibly entertaining, tense, heartfelt and, possibly the most important, unique – Rear Window is a near-perfect film despite the minor issues brought by age.

Captivating and relatable with his trademark charm, James Stewart stars as L.B. Jefferies, a daring photographer confined to a wheelchair while his leg remains broken. Only visited by his nurse Stella (Thelma Ritter) and fashion model girlfriend Lisa Carol Fremont (Grace Kelly), Jefferies’ inquisitive natures leads him to frequently peer out of his (rear) window at his many neighbours – it is only when he notices something suspicious that he has to prove the truth and convince his old friend, Detective Lt. Thomas J. Doyle (Wendell Corey).

What elevates the film to such an notable level is the effectiveness of each individual story told through the shots of the apartments opposite Jefferies’: affectionately nick-named by Jefferies, ‘Miss Lonelyhearts’, ‘Miss Torso’, ‘Miss Hearing Aids’, as well as a gifted songwriter, a couple who sleep outside in their fire escape, two young newlyweds and the suspicious Lars Thorwald all add something to the overall gravitas of the film whether it be through humour, sombreness or the relatable quirkiness of a neighbour we’ve all once known but could never explain, they are what make the film so memorable.

However, this is not to say that the film’s leads are any less impressive – in fact, it could be said that Stewart’s endearing curiosity and his investment in the lives of his neighbours is why an audience would care so much too. It should also be noted that for a film from 1954, the characters of Lisa and Stella are well developed and performed with great personality rather than the walking plot devices many female characters from this era – both Lisa and Stella prove themselves, speak their mind, and are just as important than Jefferies.

Rear Window is the definition of a classic: bursting at the seams with innovation, personality and the magic spark that keeps it just as fresh now as the day of its release. Even if you don’t think you’re into older films, or thrillers aren’t your thing, Hitchcock put in something for everyone to love.