"You shouldn't keep souvenirs of a killing."

Rating: 10/10 (28 January 2017)

VERTIGO is an exciting and tense mystery melodrama. One capable detective from San Francisco was haunted by memories of a tragedy that occurred on a night chase for one criminal. He stars being afraid of heights after those events. Withdrawal from work is an obvious choice. He enjoys the company of a romantic painter, who is in platonic love with him. However, he accepts the detective work, trying to help an old friend, whose wife suffers from a mental disorder. He becomes an important link in the game of conspiracy and intrigue...
The story is very complex, interesting, tense and anxious. A romantic adventure between cruel secrets and unfathomable mystery. Mr. Hitchcock has toyed with intrigue, identity and dreams in this film. Powerful psychological reviews permeate between dream and reality. The main protagonists are torn between deceit and obsession. Soundtrack is very important and well corresponded with slower plots. Hitch has established a lighter pace, in order to show essential details.
Scenery is magical. Something between fog and sleep. Characterization is almost perfect.
James Stewart as John "Scottie" Ferguson has managed to combine tension, informality and obsession in one character. He is a victim and avenger" at the same time. The difference between love and obsession is very small. His guilt turns into anger and disbelief. This is the first film in which Mr. Stewart does not dominate in the usual way. Kim Novak as Judy Barton/Madeleine Elster is, due to the dual role, quite amazing. Her acting is not at a high level. However, she is stylish, eerily beautiful and enigmatic. She is torn by internal struggles between love and truth. Characters are not honest. None of them. This is very interesting.
Love and passion can be a serious weapon in manipulative games and crime.