14 DAY TRIAL // “Hitchcock” is a movie based on true events about a movie based on a book written based on true events. It’s also a film that should be on the must-see list of anyone who’s a true movie buff, a real delight for the eye and mind.
“Hitchcock” doesn’t try to present the full picture of how the master of horror was in real life, which is where most biopics fail these days. Instead, it focuses on his obsession with making “Psycho” and, this way, presents the genius at work. Actions speak louder than words, as they say.
“Hitchcock” is a story of ambition verging on clinical obsession, of deep and dark repressed inclinations which find an outlet on camera through someone else’s narrative. It’s the story of a genius at work and of the woman without whom he would have accomplished very little compared to what he did.
What I Liked
The leads (Hopkins and Mirren) carry the entire film with ease and elegance, but also with a due sense of humor. Director Gervasi brings to the table a macabre sense of humor that would have delighted even the master himself.
The sets, the music and the entire feel of the movie are dark but funny, terribly foreboding and surprisingly light in turn – quite suitable for the story of a man whose work always combined these elements.
What I Didn’t Like
The disadvantage of having your lead wear face prosthetics is that, at times, the mask is all that viewers can see, the character is obscured by it. This was the case here too, but only in very few instances: for the rest of the time, Hopkins is outstanding as always, and all eyes are on his superb performance.
Conclusion
If you’re a “Hitchcock” fan and you still haven’t seen it, you’ve been missing out.
The Players
Director: Sacha Gervasi Writers: John J. McLaughlin (screenplay), Stephen Rebello (book) Stars: Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren, Scarlett Johansson, Jessica Biel, Danny Hustin, Toni Collette Rated PG-13