Ever since I took a film class in college I have loved watching old movies and analyzing them. Slowly, I am making my way through the AFI 100 (original 1998) list. This afternoon I watched Rear Window for the first time. I really enjoyed this film. I can't believe that I hadn't seen it until now. The restored version is beautiful- such vibrant colors. I love the technicolor films of the 50's and 60's.
Rear Window is nothing like I expected. I had little knowledge of the plot going in to it. The story is seamless and very interesting. It's not novel to us, but for '56 or whenever it was released it was quite a shock. Watching your neighbors out of boredom and the responsibility that brings along. I was hooked instantly and it held me through the entirety of the film. Grace Kelly was beautiful. I found the acting a little too reserved but how could you not today? Everything is so "raw" and "real" which, what does that mean anyway? I wish we could see a glimmer of the class and preparation that went into filming this movie with our selection today. And the lighting! I have always adored the way the Hitchcock's movies were lit. I can't remember a recent movie that used it to frame actors as well or added to the suspense. Sure darkness and dim light equals suspense today, but I love the feeling of looking at an elaborately set up photo.
Good movie. Not a very technical review, but I don't want to spend too much time. Some probably don't like this film. Who am I to judge, I can't stand Casablanca. Go figure.
Vertigo is on. More Hitchcock...delightful!
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I haven't actually seen the movie, but I've seen parts of it because we talked about it in my History of Photo class. I agree about the lighting, it's so mesmerizing.
Sounds like a fun goal, to watch all the old greats :)
P.S. I have a blog for my photos in studio this semester, check it out :) Michael can see the beer shot I was talking to him about.
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