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Shadow of a Doubt (1943)

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

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2 reviews

Movie review

From Time Out Film Guide

One of Hitchcock's finest films of the '40s, with Cotten as the infamous 'Merry Widow' murderer, who takes refuge with the small-town family of his sister (Collinge). Focusing on adoring niece Wright's dawning realisation that her kind, generous and handsome uncle is in fact a cold and cynical killer, the film is not only psychologically intriguing (both niece and uncle are called Charlie, and he arrives in town as if in answer to her prayers for excitement), but a sharp dissection of middle American life, in its own quiet way an ancestor of Blue Velvet. Is Uncle Charlie all these gentle folk deserve, when adolescent girls dream of the romantic life, and middle-aged men (papa Travers and neighbour Cronyn) endlessly discuss gruesome murder? Funny, gripping, and expertly shot by Joe Valentine, it's a small but memorable gem.

Author: GA

Time Out Film Guide

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User reviews of this film

ben ross said...

Posted on Dec 11 2009 14:57 wot a great film! really gripping stuff.

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Brenda said...

Posted on Jul 08 2008 03:42 This is one of my favortite Hitchcock films. The intensity of the mystery, and the final outcome keeps one on the edge of their seat. I also love the realistic dynamics and conversations between the family members. A great movie!

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