Hypnotic

Rating: 10/10 (6 July 2000)

The Cinema is often referred to as an Art form, although only a handful of films actually live up to that ideal. most films, even great ones, are extremely forgettable to all but the most die hard movie buffs. Which is why Alfred Hitchcock's "Vertigo" is such a breath of fresh air. Here is a subtle, suspensful, mezmerising tale told with the patience and sure handedness of a true artist. At it's heart Vertigo is a tale of deception and obsession. After the brilliantly exciting opening sequence (which has been ripped off countless times, like much of Al's catalogue) the movie slows down to a steady, almost frustrating pace. It's main theme develops only gradually, allowing the viewer to soak in every tiny detail of character development. I fear, however, that this film may be too subtle and cerebral for most of today's action obsessed movie buffs, but for those viewers with a little bit of patience and just a drop of thoughtfulness, "Vertigo" will prove a very rewarding experience.