Perfect craftsmanship

Rating: 8/10 (14 November 2003)

Rear Window is a perfect example of a filmmaker's craftsmanship. In the setup, Hitchcock lets the viewer indulge in his or her natural predilection for voyeurism along with the protagonist. The huge apartment set is perfect for this. There are enough clearly delineated characters that the viewer can usually find at least one to identify with, marginally if not more (besides everyman Stewart of course). Even the villain elicits some sympathy for his circumstances. The actors aren't really challenged by the material but they perform admirably and the incremental increase in the suspense is perfectly paced. I should also mention that glamorous Grace Kelly models some very chic fashions. Another winner from The Master, 9/10.