Introduction
Now that he’s not a cop anymore and not knowing what to do with himself, Scotty’s interactions with the fabulous actress Barbara Gail gidds, who plays Midge, are intriguing. Midge, a great character in the film, has great chemistry with Scotty, and their relationship becomes a central theme in the movie. Scotty, retired from the force, finds himself searching for purpose and companionship.
Plot Summary
“Vertigo”, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, is a mystery crime noir film that explores the themes of love, identity, and relationships. The story follows John Ferguson, a former police officer who suffers from vertigo, an intense fear of heights. He is hired by an old friend to prevent his wife from committing suicide.
A Haunting Masterpiece
Hitchcock’s “Vertigo” is considered one of his masterworks. It is a haunting and compelling film that reveals the director’s predilections and hang-ups. The movie delves into the complexities of human nature, providing a uniquely revelatory experience for the audience.
A Terrifying Incident
The film opens with John Ferguson, played by the charismatic James Stewart, pursuing a criminal across rooftops. However, his fear of heights gets the better of him, and he almost falls off the side of a building. This incident debilitates John and leads to the tragic death of his fellow police officer who tries to save him but falls to his death instead.
The Search for Purpose
After this incident, John is forced to retire from the police force due to his vertigo. He feels lost and searches for a new purpose in life. The film explores his journey of identity and the challenges he faces as a result of his condition. The conversations he has with old friends reveal his inner struggles and the uncertainty of his future.
An Exploration of Relationships
“Vertigo” also delves into the complexities of relationships. John’s search for purpose leads him to become entangled in a web of love and deception. The film vividly portrays the connections between the characters, their desires, and their hidden motives.
A Thought-Provoking Beginning
The beginning of the film sets the tone for the rest of the story. It highlights the psychological and emotional turmoil experienced by John and how it shapes his actions. The audience is captivated from the start, intrigued by the intricate web of mystery and suspense woven by Hitchcock.
The Fascinating Journey
“Vertigo” takes the audience on a captivating journey, exploring the effects of John’s condition on his life and relationships. The film spends a significant amount of time delving into his struggles and the emotional complexities he faces. This exploration makes for a fascinating viewing experience that keeps the audience engaged throughout the film.
The Theme of Relationships
In the First Act, Scotty emphasizes his lack of connections – no marriage, no relationships, no children. Retiring from the police force has stripped him of his identity and he yearns for a new purpose. Midge is attracted to him, loves him, and desires to be with him. However, Scotty fails to reciprocate her feelings.
Scotty’s Missed Opportunity
Despite Midge’s genuine affection and compatibility with Scotty, he does not choose her. It is puzzling why he overlooks her qualities. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and as a viewer, one can’t help but root for Scotty to realize what is in front of him and pick Midge. She is an outstanding choice, yet Scotty seems blind to it.
A Hilarious Moment
One memorable scene involves Midge showing Scotty her painting – her own version of Carlotta’s dress. This moment is genuinely funny and I couldn’t help but burst into laughter. It showcases the depth of Midge’s character and provides a lighthearted contrast to the film’s overall tone.
Vertigo Review | First Time Watching | Throwback Breakdown & Analysis
The Complexity of Relationships
The movie Vertigo delves into the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the protagonist and his love interest. The scene where the female character, Madeline, becomes angry and persistent despite the lack of interest from the protagonist, Scotty, highlights the dynamics of their connection. It is intriguing to witness Madeline’s unwavering dedication to Scotty, even when he finds himself in a mental hospital. This unwavering love becomes a central theme throughout the movie, showcasing the power of commitment and loyalty.
Unraveling the Mystery
As the movie progresses, the audience is presented with a mystery surrounding Scotty, also known as James, and Madeline. James reveals to Madeline that she resembles his friend’s deceased wife and unfolds the story of her troubled past. Details emerge about Madeline’s grandmother, who went insane after being abandoned by her husband and losing custody of her daughter. Her tragic end in suicide further adds to the enigma surrounding Madeline. The movie delves into the psychological aspects of the characters, questioning whether Madeline’s behavior is supernatural or a result of early dementia or trauma.
A Meeting of Souls
The relationship between Madeline and James is brought to life through their shared experiences of trauma. Despite their different backgrounds and individual struggles, they find solace and understanding in each other. This aspect of their connection is highlighted throughout the movie, subtly showcasing the power of companionship and empathy. The filmmakers successfully show how two people dealing with their own demons can find solace and comfort in the presence of another who comprehends their pain.
Evolving Twists and Turns
Vertigo is a movie that keeps the audience on their toes, with unexpected twists and turns at every corner. The revelations and new information about the characters continuously challenge the audience’s understanding and assumptions. As the plot develops, the audience is tasked with deciphering the true nature of Madeline’s condition and the events unfolding in the movie. Each piece of information provided heightens the suspense and anticipation, making the viewing experience engaging and thought-provoking.
Vertigo is a masterfully crafted movie that delves into the complexities of relationships and the human psyche. Through the portrayal of the characters and their shared experiences, the film explores themes of loyalty, trauma, and companionship. The mystery surrounding Madeline’s condition and the evolving twists and turns keep the audience engaged and intrigued throughout. Vertigo is a must-watch for those who appreciate thought-provoking and emotionally charged cinema.
A Different Direction and Madeline’s Possession
It went into a different direction and her Madeline’s husband tell her she’s been possessed. James Scotty is like no she’s not possessed. I can fix her, she’s not broken. I can fix her and she will love me and that was kind of the beginning of his obsession.
James’ Obsession and Neglect of Midge
What I was not ready for was James’ obsession for Madeline to grow to such a ridiculous insane amount throughout the film instead of focusing on Midge who’s this real grounded, loving person. This person here that’s super real and, in your face, he’s focused on this person that he basically created in his head. He constructs all these things that he thinks that he needs from her that she hasn’t even really showcased, that he doesn’t even know about her. The only thing he knows is about her trauma, that’s all he knew about her, but he was falling in love with the idea of what she could be once she fixed herself, and I think that was a fascinating thing for this. We would explore in this crime mystery thriller and it all comes to the head when Madeline is telling him that it’s too late. She needs to do this and she climbs up a tower and, as he gives chase his vertigo comes into play and it debilitates him and he cannot see her.
Moment of Tragedy and Identity Loss
She jumps off the building and kills herself, and this creates a moment where he loses his identity again because he lost his identity.
Vertigo Review | First Time Watching | Throwback Breakdown & Analysis
The Protagonist’s Life
The film “Vertigo” revolves around a man who couldn’t fulfill his dream of becoming a cop, which became the driving force behind his life choices. This obsession pushed away his loved ones, preventing him from marrying Midge or committing to any relationship. He lived a life without family or close connections. When he loses his purpose after being unable to become a cop, he seeks solace in the presence of Madeline.
The Twist Revealed
After being admitted to a mental institution, the protagonist’s life takes a sharp turn. Unexpectedly, a shocking twist is revealed. It is here that we discover the true motives of Madeline’s husband. The movie hints at this twist from the start, briefly mentioning that Madeline married into money. However, this detail is easily overlooked, only to come back with a significant impact later in the film.
The Deception Unveiled
Madeline’s husband orchestrates an elaborate plan to kill her, ensuring that he inherits her fortune. He hires a double to impersonate Madeline, deceiving the protagonist, Scotty, into falling in love with her. Throughout the film, the disguised Madeline, whose real name is Judy, resembles the original Madeline perfectly. Scotty, unaware of the deception, becomes infatuated with her and even tries to mold Judy into the image of Madeline.
The Uncomfortable Transformation
As the story progresses, Scotty’s transformation of Judy becomes more unsettling. He manipulates Judy’s appearance, dressing her in the same clothes and hairstyle as the real Madeline. Scotty’s obsession with recreating Madeline’s presence becomes uncomfortable and creates an eerie atmosphere.
The Significance of the Twist
The revelation of the twist in “Vertigo” adds a deeper layer to the story. It emphasizes how deception can be used for personal gain, leading to the destruction of lives and relationships. The brief mention of Madeline’s marriage to wealth foreshadows the true intentions of her husband. This twist amplifies the sense of betrayal felt by the protagonist and the audience, making it a crucial element in the narrative.
“Vertigo” is a film filled with unexpected turns and hidden motives. It explores the consequences of obsession, deceit, and the pursuit of personal gain. The twist involving Madeline’s husband adds an intriguing layer to the story, ultimately leaving viewers questioning the true nature of the characters and their motives.
Vertigo Review | First Time Watching | Throwback Breakdown & Analysis
Themes of Manipulation and Identity
The film Vertigo explores the themes of manipulation and identity through its characters and their relationships. From the very beginning, we witness a constant pattern of one person exerting control over another. This is portrayed through the man pushing his desires onto a woman, and the husband doing the same to his wife. Scotty, the protagonist, follows this pattern as well, as he tries to mold the woman he believes he is in love with. What is fascinating is how this theme, although depicted in a movie released in the late 90s, still resonates with audiences today. It serves as a reminder that such manipulative behavior continues to occur in real life.
The Element of Surprise
One of the most surprising aspects of the film is the revelation about one of the sisters. This unexpected twist caught me off guard and made me question everything I had seen before. I found myself reevaluating the previous scenes, trying to determine the real identity of the character. The film successfully plays with the audience’s perception and keeps them engaged in unravelling the truth. It is through this element of surprise that Vertigo manages to hold its viewers’ attention and create intrigue.
The Exploration of Love and Identity
Vertigo delves into the complex dynamics of love and identity. Scotty, the protagonist, seeks purpose in his relationship with a woman. He constructs an idealized version of her, believing it to be the right way for her to exist. However, when faced with the reality of who she truly is, he is repulsed. On the other hand, Judy falls in love with the image she has of Scotty, but it is not who he genuinely is. She becomes terrified by the realization of the person she has become involved with. This exploration of love and identity adds depth to the film and invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and perceptions of relationships.
Technical Brilliance
From a technical standpoint, Vertigo excels in various aspects. The film’s cinematography, set design, and costume choices all contribute to creating a visually stunning experience. Each scene is meticulously crafted to evoke specific emotions and enhance the storytelling. The attention to detail is commendable and adds a layer of depth to the overall viewing experience. However, it is worth mentioning that there is one flaw in the film, which I will address in the following section.
Shortcomings
Despite its technical brilliance, Vertigo does suffer from one notable shortcoming. [Insert specific shortcoming here]. This flaw, while minor in comparison to the overall quality of the film, is worth considering in a critical analysis.
Vertigo is a captivating film that explores themes of manipulation, identity, love, and the nature of relationships. It surprises viewers with unexpected twists and prompts reflection on their own perceptions of reality. The film’s technical excellence is evident in its stunning visuals, thoughtful cinematography, and attention to detail. While it may have its shortcomings, Vertigo remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences.
The Set Design and Environmental Storytelling
The set design in Vertigo is truly remarkable, with its vivid colors and attention to detail. Each room in the film tells a story about the person who lives in it, giving us insights into their character and personality. Scotty’s apartment, for example, is small and lacks personal touches, indicating that he doesn’t prioritize his home life. On the other hand, Midge’s home is colorful and artsy, reflecting her true passions, even though she doesn’t get to pursue them fully. The set design successfully conveys the characters’ traits through their living spaces.
Exploring Femininity
Throughout the film, there is a clear focus on femininity. Objects that resemble female anatomy and flowers, traditionally associated with women, are prominently featured. This choice effectively reinforces the male perspective of the film and showcases what men perceive as women’s power. One particularly intriguing scene is when Scotty coerces Judy into transforming into the Madeline he desires. Unaware of Judy’s inner battles, Scotty is fixated on creating his ideal vision of her. When Judy emerges from her transformation, wearing a vibrant green ensemble that contrasts with her former gray suit and blonde hair, she appears almost ghostly. This visual depiction is both perfect and stunning, highlighting the eerie transformation she undergoes.
The Symbolism of Colors
Colors play a crucial role in conveying emotions and suspense throughout Vertigo. One memorable scene takes place in a restaurant, where Scotty first lays eyes on Madeline. The walls of the restaurant are painted red, intensifying the atmosphere. When Scotty sees Madeline for the first time, the entire scene is bathed in red, emphasizing his lust and danger surrounding her. The use of color in this instance effectively captures the passion and desire that Scotty feels for Madeline.
Community Question
The film Vertigo raises thought-provoking questions and encourages discussion. One question that arises from this analysis is: how does the film’s portrayal of women and their power reflect the societal beliefs and expectations of that time?
The Impact of Modern Audiences on Vertigo
Therapy Sessions and Dealing with Vertigo
In a modern adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo, one can envision the inclusion of therapy sessions to delve deeper into Scotty’s struggles with his vertigo. Unlike in the original film where the condition was simply presented but never explored further, depicting therapy sessions would add a realistic touch to the story. It would demonstrate how Scotty seeks professional help to cope with his condition and possibly highlight the physical therapy exercises available to treat vertigo. This aspect would give the audience a better understanding of Scotty’s journey and his ability to obtain treatment.
Utilizing Modern Technology for Surveillance
Considering the advancements in technology, the way Scotty would track Madeleine throughout the film would have likely been modified. Instead of solely following her in a car, the modern adaptation would most likely incorporate contemporary surveillance techniques. This could involve the use of hidden cameras, tapping into her phone calls, or even wiretapping her room. These methods would showcase the influence of technology and its impact on investigative work in the present day. It would add a layer of intrigue and sophistication to the narrative, keeping viewers engaged with the evolving methods of surveillance utilized by the protagonist.
Updating the Film’s Approach to Sexuality
In classic films like Hitchcock’s Vertigo, the focus on physical intimacy is often downplayed or alluded to indirectly. However, with the progression of society and the shift in approach to sexuality in modern movies, an updated adaptation of Vertigo would likely place more emphasis on the characters’ sexual relationships. By exploring and portraying the sexual aspects more explicitly, the film would cater to the preferences of contemporary audiences. This would add a heightened sense of complexity to the characters and their motivations, staying true to the modern filmmaking landscape.
Vertigo Review | First Time Watching | Throwback Breakdown & Analysis
The Missing Elements
When watching Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo for the first time, one cannot help but notice the absence of sex scenes or nudity. The focus in the film seems to be on the romantic relationship between the two main characters, Scottie and Madeleine. However, in today’s cinematic landscape, it is often expected that such themes be explored more explicitly. There is an argument to be made that adding some applied nudity or sex scenes could have better exemplified the intense romance between Scottie and Madeleine, catering to modern audiences’ desire for a more explicit portrayal of relationships.
The Femme Fatale Feel
One aspect that might have benefitted from a modern adaptation is the portrayal of Madeleine and Judy as femme fatales. While the film does touch upon their captivating allure, there is room for deeper exploration of their characters and motives. A contemporary retelling could have delved into the complexities of their personalities, ensuring that the audience is more convinced of Scottie’s infatuation with Madeleine. Additionally, it would have been interesting to see why Judy was still in love with Scottie despite all the deception and manipulation she had orchestrated.
The Lengthy Runtime
One critique of Vertigo is its lengthy runtime, which some argue is not justified by the story being told. While the mystery aspect of the film keeps the audience engaged, there are moments in between that could have been explored further, such as James’ relationship with Madeleine. It is puzzling why Scottie falls in love with her without knowing much about her personality aside from her appearance. A deeper exploration of their conversations and interactions would have provided a more convincing foundation for their connection.
The Disappearing Act
Another interesting aspect that could have been further explored is the disappearance and transformation of Judy. After revealing her true identity to Scottie, Judy changes her appearance to distance herself from the Madeline persona. However, it is unclear why she still holds onto her love for Scottie, especially considering the turmoil and betrayal she had caused. This unanswered question leaves viewers wondering about Judy’s motivations and desires, which could have been delved into deeper to provide a more satisfying resolution.
While Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo is a classic film that stands the test of time, there are elements that could have been enhanced for a modern audience. The inclusion of explicit sexual content or nudity, further exploration of the characters’ depth and motivations, and a clearer resolution to certain plot points could have made the film even more compelling. Nonetheless, Vertigo remains a captivating thriller that leaves viewers with lingering questions and a sense of wonder.
The Exploration of Relationships
The film “Vertigo” leaves the viewers wanting more when it comes to exploring the relationships between the characters. One aspect that could have been delved into further is the relationship between Madeline and her husband. The film does not provide enough insight into their dynamic, and it leaves the audience wondering about their connection. It would have been interesting to see how their relationship differed from Madeline’s relationship with Scotty.
The Score
One aspect of the film that has received much praise is its score. However, upon watching it, I did not find it as exceptional as others have claimed. While it was good, I personally felt that the score became repetitive as the film progressed. The continuous use of the same sound to heighten the mystery and tension started to become monotonous. It is not to say that the score was bad, but it simply did not leave a lasting impression on me.
The Climactic Ending
The climax of the film is undeniably captivating, as Scotty chases Madeline up the tower and confronts her with everything that is going on. The intensity of the scene is further heightened by the appearance of a seemingly demonic nun. This sequence is undoubtedly awe-inspiring and well-executed. However, the ending of the film left me feeling somewhat empty. It is hard to pinpoint exactly what caused this feeling, as the events leading up to it were enthralling. Nevertheless, the of the film left me with a sense of dissatisfaction.
“Vertigo” is a film that may leave some viewers wanting more in terms of character exploration and development. The score, although not bad, tends to become repetitive. The climactic ending, while executed brilliantly, may leave some feeling unsatisfied. Overall, “Vertigo” is a film that showcases Alfred Hitchcock’s mastery in creating tension and suspense, but it is not without its flaws.
Analysis of “Vertigo”
Upon watching the movie “Vertigo” for the first time, I was immediately drawn into a captivating journey. However, as the movie reached its , I couldn’t help but feel a sense of dissatisfaction due to the lack of resolutions. While I understand that the focus of the film was on the journey and the character development of the lead actors, the central crux of the story remained unresolved.
The Impact of “Vertigo”
Despite this, I still thoroughly enjoyed the movie, particularly the foreign elements that contributed to its unique and pioneering style. “Vertigo” had a significant impact on American cinema during the New Wave era, particularly in terms of its groundbreaking camera work and the dominance of the story in shaping the movie. It marked a transition where cinematography and emotion took precedence over traditional storytelling techniques.
Storytelling through Cinematography and Acting
One aspect that stood out to me was the use of cinematography to convey the story. The background world building and the actors’ performances played a crucial role in telling the narrative. Whether it was the deliberate quietness, the absence of sound, or other creative techniques, it all served to heighten the viewers’ emotions and enhance their perception of the movie. This level of attention to detail greatly contributed to the impact of “Vertigo.”
Influence on Cinematic Techniques
What amazed me even more was discovering that “Vertigo” was the first movie to use the iconic vertical effect. This technique has since been replicated in numerous films, sometimes even when it may not be necessary. Hitchcock’s masterful use of this effect in “Vertigo” undoubtedly made an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
Unforgettable Moments and Legacy
It is also worth mentioning the countless iconic scenes in “Vertigo” that have been replicated and referenced in other films. These unforgettable moments serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of this movie. It solidifies its position as a film that has had a serious impact on the world of cinema.
As someone who is relatively new to the world of movies, I may not possess extensive knowledge or expertise. However, my growing understanding and appreciation for films have allowed me to recognize the significance of “Vertigo” and its place in cinematic history.
Vertigo Review | First Time Watching | Throwback Breakdown & Analysis
A Cinematic Delight
This movie was truly a great experience. Seeing all those iconic scenes and realizing where they originated from was a delightful revelation. From a cinephile’s perspective, the film is undeniably fantastic. However, on an emotional level, I must admit that I wasn’t completely engrossed in the happenings of the story. Nonetheless, I can appreciate the film’s brilliance.
An Emotional Journey
Although I didn’t feel deeply attached to the characters or the plot, I recognize that repeated viewings may allow me to become more emotionally invested. With that being said, I would give Vertigo a solid B plus.
Your Opinion Matters
Did you enjoy Vertigo? Or did you dislike it? What rating would you personally give this film? Do you believe it is Alfred Hitchcock’s best movie, as many claim it to be? Is there another Hitchcock film, such as North by Northwest or Rear Window, that you consider superior? Your thoughts and opinions matter, so please let me know in the comments section below.
Themes and Interpretations
I would love to hear your thoughts on the themes and symbolism present in the film. What do you think the director intended to convey through various elements? How did you interpret the events and character motivations? Share your insights and engage in a meaningful discussion.
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“Vertigo” is a masterpiece that combines elements of mystery, crime noir, and psychological suspense. It delves into the themes of love, identity, and relationships, providing a thought-provoking and captivating viewing experience. Hitchcock’s directing prowess shines through in this film, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
In a modern retelling of Vertigo, the inclusion of therapy sessions, the utilization of advanced surveillance technology, and an updated approach to sexuality would enhance the film’s relevancy and appeal to contemporary audiences. While the original film remains a timeless classic, envisioning these changes allows us to appreciate how the story could be adapted to resonate with the sensibilities of today’s viewers.
