Hitchcock (2012) - A Movie Review

“The more successful the villain, the more successful the picture.” - Alfred Hitchcock

Hitchcock is a 2012 film about the legendary horror director, Alfred Hitchcock, and the making of his iconic movie, Psycho. During the film’s making, Hitchcock struggles in his relationship with his wife, Alma.

I have always been a major fan of Alfred Hitchcock’s work. October always makes a suitable viewing month for his content. Films deserve revisiting more than once, so I rewatched Hitchcock after a decade. It’s a fascinating look into the filming of Psycho. This film is a step back in time for movie enthusiasts who want to experience a Hitchcock film.

Casting Anthony Hopkins as the late Alfred Hitchcock was grade A gold. Hopkins manifested the director’s mannerisms and personality down pat, from vocals to Hitchcock’s demanding techniques. Hopkins met the filmmaker when he was younger.

Hitchcock is not simply a filmmaker, but a man who’s battling his ego, his fears, and his own legacy. There’s more to him than you think. Hopkins masterfully played the role. Did you know that he wore prosthetics and a fat suit for his physical portrayal?

Helen Mirren plays Alma Reville, Hitchcock’s wife. Mirren turned down an opportunity to work with Hitchcock, which she said she regrets. Hitchcock and Alma’s relationship is the most important dynamic in the film, and the actors do a superb job. Alma did more than you think behind Hitchcock’s direction, to which this movie gives her the rightful recognition.

Hitchcock includes a strong cast of actors who portray real figures in the making of Psycho. Scarlett Johnannson is impressive in her portrayal of the late Janet Leigh. She also does a fantastic job on capturing Leigh’s mannerisms.

My fan heart for Toni Collette still hadn’t started when I first watched Hitchcock. More credits include Danny Huston, Jessica Beil, Michael Stuhlbargen, James D’Arcy, Michael Wincott, and Kurtwood Smith.

Sacha Gervasi is a big fan of Alfred Hitchcock’s work. Hitchcock made his feature film debut as a director. He has written scripts for other films like The Terminal (2004). Hitchcock is more of a character study than a behind-the-scenes approach.

He was drawn to the artist’s personal story, mixed with amplifying a thriller film that made history. Rather than turning the movie into a biopic, he creates a lively backstage drama that examines obsession, creativity, and Hitchcock’s battle between partnership and ego.

Gervasi filmed scenes in Hitchcock’s actual office and in the Paramount Pictures studio. Now that is authenticity. He pays respect to the late director in every frame of this reimagination. Every edit and shot has a stylistic approach. Gervasi also included clever visual nods to Hitchcock’s own storytelling techniques, from signature camera angles and close-ups.

Gervasi crafts a richly detailed and darkly humorous film that captures the vulnerability of Hitchcock’s world. I also just learned that the music was composed by Danny Elfman, a talented songwriter.

When you look at a picture of anyone famous, it’s only the tip of the iceberg. You never know who they were or what secrets or vulnerabilities they wanted to hide from the public.

One of my favorite elements in any film is learning about the behind-the-scenes stories. This is a total look into the making of Psycho (1960), one of favorites of Hitchcock’s favorites! Filmmakers did their research and added several anecdotes and details. However, there is one inaccuracy that involves the shower scene, but it’s a small detail.

How has this film ended up in the museum of underrated gems? Alfred Hitchcock fans should add this film to their watch lists.