Rear Window

Rear Window is one of the less filmy and realistic masterpieces by suspense virtuoso Alfred Hitchcock! It revolves around a simple apartment building with injured photojournalist L. B. Jefferies watching over the neighbors during his leg injury recovery period. What happens when he witnesses a murder at this time and how he goes about solving it forms the crux.

James Stewart as the protagonist is absolutely enigmatic in this feature that has an ultra-tight screenplay by John Michael Hayes! From start to finish, the film doesn't allow you to let a sigh of relief - the investigation is that gripping! The moment Jeff's suspicion towards the resident opposite his dwelling is ignited that a murder may have occurred, every movement by the suspect is articulated thoroughly to the viewers. Salesman carrying multiple cases out in the middle of a rainy night, puppy's sudden death, Jeff dialing a prank call and submitting letter threat are examples. The entire climax of Lisa (Grace Kelly) digging the garden and infiltrating the house of the culprit as the latter returns home is super nerve-wrecking! Salesman attempting at Jeff's life as the protagonist uses the only weapon he has - a camera flash to defend himself is truly well made! If nothing at all, Jeff's back-and-forth conversations with his allies, namely Stella (Thelma Ritter), Lisa and Doyle (Wendell Corey) are enough engaging! The fine line of letting us doubt ourselves that the homicide may not have happened makes the film argument balanced.

While Rear Window is an investigative thriller, it's the attention to the characters and extras that render this motion picture a wholesome experience. If you notice, all the neighbors are distinct and recognizable just by their occupation and/or lifestyle. And every one of them deals with the common theme of marriage and companionship - the primary aspect of our hero's life story! Dialogues are first class and the camerawork is flawless!