Rear Window (1954)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Rear Window is a suspense thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock, based on Cornell Woolrich’s 1942 short story “It Had to Be Murder.” The film is set in a Greenwich Village apartment complex and primarily takes place from the perspective of L.B. “Jeff” Jefferies (James Stewart), a professional photographer confined to a wheelchair after breaking his leg.

Jeff’s Confinement and Observation

Jeff spends his days recuperating in his apartment, passing the time by observing his neighbors through the rear window. His observations reveal a series of vignettes from the lives of the residents across the courtyard, including a lonely woman nicknamed “Miss Lonelyhearts” (Judith Evelyn), a beautiful dancer referred to as “Miss Torso” (Georgine Darcy), and a married couple, the Thorwalds.

The Suspicion

Jeff becomes suspicious of Lars Thorwald (Raymond Burr), a traveling salesman, after noticing strange activities and the sudden disappearance of Mrs. Thorwald (Irene Winston). Jeff confides his suspicions to his girlfriend, Lisa Fremont (Grace Kelly), and his nurse, Stella (Thelma Ritter). Initially skeptical, both women eventually become convinced that something sinister has occurred.

The Investigation

The trio begins to investigate, with Jeff using his telephoto lens to gather evidence and Lisa and Stella taking a more active role. They uncover several disturbing clues, such as Thorwald’s late-night trips and the removal of a large trunk. Lisa even sneaks into Thorwald’s apartment, finding Mrs. Thorwald’s jewelry, which she believes Thorwald would not have left behind if his wife had truly gone away.

The Climax

Their investigation leads to a climactic confrontation. Jeff, still incapacitated, watches helplessly as Thorwald catches Lisa in his apartment. Lisa signals to Jeff that she has found Mrs. Thorwald’s wedding ring, but Thorwald notices and realizes he is being watched. He confronts Jeff, who tries to fend him off using his camera’s flashbulb. The flashes temporarily blind Thorwald, buying Jeff enough time for the police to arrive and arrest Thorwald.

Resolution

The film concludes with Thorwald confessing to the murder of his wife and Jeff and Lisa reaffirming their relationship. Jeff is shown with two broken legs, but content, while Lisa reads a fashion magazine, hinting at her readiness to adapt to Jeff’s adventurous lifestyle.

Movie Ending

The film ends with a sense of resolution and justice. Thorwald’s arrest brings peace back to the neighborhood, and Jeff and Lisa’s relationship is solidified, suggesting a future where they balance their differing lifestyles.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Rear Window.

Type of Movie

Rear Window is a suspense thriller with elements of mystery and psychological drama. It explores themes of voyeurism, morality, and the complexities of human relationships.

Cast

• James Stewart as L.B. “Jeff” Jefferies
• Grace Kelly as Lisa Fremont
• Thelma Ritter as Stella
• Raymond Burr as Lars Thorwald
• Wendell Corey as Detective Lt. Thomas J. Doyle
• Judith Evelyn as Miss Lonelyhearts
• Georgine Darcy as Miss Torso

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Franz Waxman, whose music enhances the suspense and emotional tone of the narrative.

Filming Locations

Rear Window was primarily filmed on a massive set constructed at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, California. The detailed set replicated a New York City courtyard and allowed for the unique perspective central to the film’s plot.

Awards and Nominations

Rear Window received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:

• Academy Awards: Nominations for Best Director (Alfred Hitchcock), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography (Color), and Best Sound Recording.
• BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Film from any Source.
• National Board of Review: Named one of the Top Ten Films of the Year.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Alfred Hitchcock’s meticulous direction included using a real, functioning apartment complex set, allowing the actors to live and perform in their characters’ spaces.
• James Stewart’s performance as Jeff, confined to a wheelchair, is often cited as one of his best, showcasing his ability to convey tension and curiosity despite his character’s physical limitations.
• Grace Kelly’s role as Lisa Fremont marked one of her iconic performances, blending sophistication and bravery.

Inspirations and References

The film is based on Cornell Woolrich’s short story “It Had to Be Murder.” Hitchcock’s adaptation expands on the themes of voyeurism and the ethics of watching others, questioning the boundaries between curiosity and invasion of privacy.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Rear Window closely follows Hitchcock’s vision. There are no widely known alternate endings or significant deleted scenes, though special editions may include behind-the-scenes content and interviews.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film adaptation expands on Woolrich’s short story, adding more character development, subplots, and the romantic element between Jeff and Lisa. The visual storytelling and suspense are enhanced through Hitchcock’s direction and cinematic techniques.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Jeff’s initial observations of his neighbors, establishing the film’s voyeuristic theme.
• The scene where Lisa sneaks into Thorwald’s apartment.
• The tense climax where Thorwald confronts Jeff in his apartment.
• The final scene showing Jeff and Lisa’s relationship evolving.

Iconic Quotes

• “Tell me exactly what you saw and what you think it means.” – Jeff
• “I wonder if it’s ethical to watch a man with binoculars and a long-focus lens.” – Lisa
• “You know, for a minute that Tom Doyle almost had me convinced I was wrong.” – Jeff

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• Hitchcock makes his traditional cameo appearance as a man winding a clock in the songwriter’s apartment.
• The film uses light and shadow to create suspense and highlight the isolation and confinement felt by Jeff.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was around $1 million, and it grossed over $36 million worldwide.
• Rear Window is considered one of Hitchcock’s masterpieces and is frequently cited in discussions of the greatest films ever made.
• The film has been preserved in the United States National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Why Watch?

Rear Window is a masterclass in suspense and visual storytelling. Its blend of tension, character development, and moral questioning makes it a compelling watch for fans of thrillers and classic cinema.

Director’s Other Movies

Alfred Hitchcock also directed:

• Psycho (1960)
• North by Northwest (1959)
• Vertigo (1958)
• The Birds (1963)
• Strangers on a Train (1951)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Vertigo (1958)
• Psycho (1960)
• The Birds (1963)
• Dial M for Murder (1954)
• Strangers on a Train (1951)

Rear Window remains a quintessential Hitchcock film, offering a rich blend of suspense, psychological depth, and masterful direction.