Love Thy Neighbour?

Rating: Null/10 (9 October 2002)

Rear Window is arguably Hitchcock's finest film. It encapsulates a tale of intrigue, suspense, paranoia and voyeurism, but also features an underlying tone exploring the subject of human relationships and love.

L. B. Jefferies (James Stewart) is a wheelchair-bound photographer recovering from a broken leg. His frustration and boredom at being confined within his own home leads to an obsession with the lives of the people through his rear window. The wealth of relationships before his eyes highlight the various stages of coupling, and Jefferies is forced to examine his own love life, following a recent proposal from his doting beau Lisa (Grace Kelly). Using binoculars and high power lenses, Jefferies is alerted to the suspicious behaviour of Lars Thorwell (Raymond Burr), and becomes convinced that he has witnessed the events surrounding a murder. Soon, both Lisa and his unflappable nurse (the wonderful Thelma Ritter), become convinced that something is seriously awry. When cynicism comes from Jefferies' friend on the force, Lt. Doyle (Wendell Corey), he is forced to examine his actions, intuitions and motives as the plot unfolds.
Hitchcock creates a tense environment, with the small, unchanging set complemented by incidental street noises, and the occasional playing of a local pianist. Like Jefferies, the viewer becomes absorbed with the lives of ordinary people, as the many incidental characters embark upon their daily routines. It is a thriller which entices the audience into sharing the intrigue, emotions and suspicions of the main characters, as the subtle script weaves its way to conclusion. Rear Window is a tense, yet understated mystery, and a delightful exploration of human nature.