The Devil's in the Details

Rating: 10/10 (18 December 2011)

Hitch's attention to detail has never been better. From Raymond Burr's straw hat to the reflections in Stewart's lenses to the soundtrack with invisible kids playing, everything is calculated and perfect. Stewart's features are flawless as well. His facial contortions as he satisfies an itch under his leg cast are uncanny. I found myself sticking my tongue sideways between my teeth right along with him. A full load of Hitchcock suspense is delivered in measured doses right up to the climax. The cigarette smoking in the dark bit was one of the most frightening scenes I remember from my childhood movie watching. The final shot is a complete mystery to me.