Stage Fright: Revisiting Alfred Hitchcock’s Less-Known Classic

Alfred Hitchcock fans are undoubtedly discerning, yet they are also among the most loyal, always eager to watch the master of suspense’s films, regardless of their popularity. Stage Fright (1950), despite starring major names like Marlene Dietrich and Jane Wyman, didn’t quite meet critical or public expectations. This is, in fact, one of Hitchcock’s less acclaimed films, and despite some qualities, it ultimately doesn’t captivate as much as his other works.

Stage Fright Plot: A Suspenseful Classic Unraveled

The film, also known by its original title Stage Fright, is based on a story by Whitfield Cook and adapted by Alma Reville. The plot follows a premise quite familiar to Hitchcock fans, though without major surprises. Eve Gill (Jane Wyman) is surprised by a visit from Jonathan Cooper (Richard Todd), who tells her a convoluted story involving his lover, actress Charlotte Inwood (Marlene Dietrich). According to him, Charlotte, after murdering her husband, appeared at his house with a blood-stained dress, asking for help to escape. While trying to help her, Jonathan is identified by a witness and becomes the prime suspect.

Although the plot has potential, there’s a fragility in the script, particularly in Jonathan’s motivation to return to the crime scene just to retrieve a pair of clothes. Even for the 1950s, this decision seems inconsistent.

Suspense, Mystery, and Performances

In love with Jonathan, Eve decides to investigate the case and, to do so, takes a job as Charlotte’s assistant. Her strong dislike for the actress drives her to try and find evidence that proves Charlotte’s guilt. However, as the investigation progresses, Charlotte’s character becomes increasingly ambiguous. Although all clues seem to point to her, Charlotte’s moments of terror suggest that there might be more behind her divaesque actress façade.

Marlene Dietrich’s performance, though intense and mysterious, sometimes creates a barrier for the viewer. Her presence on screen often seems more concerned with glamour than with the emotional development of her character. The meticulously planned lighting, which emphasizes her beauty and conceals flaws, is a characteristic reminiscent of classic Hollywood films and is visible in all her scenes.

The Relationship Between Eve and Investigator Smith

Another point that fails to win over the audience is the superficial relationship between Eve and Investigator Smith (Michael Wilding). This involvement develops in a forced and rapid manner, leading to an emotional disconnect, as the audience doesn’t have time to connect with the characters meaningfully.

Conclusion: Is It Worth Watching?

In summary, Stage Fright is a film that can be watched without high expectations. Despite its flaws, especially in pacing and character development, a Hitchcock film is always interesting to see. For fans of the master of suspense, the experience is still worthwhile, particularly for the final scene, which, curiously, reminded me of a moment from Ghost (1990). Those who have seen both films will understand what I mean. Read more about Hitchcock’s most acclaimed films for a deeper dive into his masterpieces.

Mais sobre a autora

Kylson Estellfran

Escritor, Geógrafo, Profissional de TI e Designer . Kylson é um apaixonado por cinema, literatura, se considera um Geek, apaixonado pela cultura Pop (HQs, mangás, ficção, games, séries de TV, mitologia) mas com amor também por pelo universo Cult. Não se considera um Crítico, mas sim alguém que Analisa filmes como expectador atencioso aos detalhes. “O cinema para mim é um dos grandes alimentos da minha alma, sendo a mais completa de todas as Artes”.

See author's posts