W2TCH

Rear Window (1954)

1954 • 1h 52m • Thriller, Mystery • PG
On September 25, 2026
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All reviews

John Chard on Rear Window

10/10 · Feb 11, 2020

L.B. Jefferies, a photographer with limited mobility, finds himself occupied with watching his neighbors from his apartment window as a way to pass the time. As he becomes more engrossed in their lives, he develops a strong belief that one of them has committed murder, which places him and those around him at risk. Like many of Alfred Hitchcock’s celebrated films, Rear Window has been analyzed extensively by critics with far greater expertise than I possess as just an enthusiastic movie fan. So how does someone even begin to write about a film considered among Hitchcock's finest? Perhaps it’s best to simply describe what resonates with me, without getting bogged down in psychological analysis or exploring the complexities of human nature! Rear Window is based on Alfred Hitchcock and writer John Michael Hayes’ adaptation of Cornell Woolrich’s story, It Had To Be Murder/Murder From A Fixed Viewpoint. The film compels us as viewers to become voyeurs, observing a man who becomes increasingly fascinated with watching others. It's an impressive feat from Hitchcock, and it’s easy to imagine the director was enjoying himself immensely while creating it. Confined primarily to one location, Hitchcock has crafted a suspenseful, captivating, playful, and alluring film, supported by a talented cast delivering performances that do justice to the clever script. What is frequently overlooked by those focusing on the psychological elements of Rear Window is the obvious irony of L.B. Jefferies’ predicament: his attention isn't solely focused on a possible murder; he's primarily interested in the romantic relationships of those he observes, which ultimately leads him to acknowledge the affection from the woman who desires to be with him. It’s also worth appreciating the contributions of each character, including those who visit Jefferies and the conversations they have, even the suspected murderer exhibits a certain amused demeanor. It's rare to find a film where every single character plays an essential role in the narrative. The ending is particularly noteworthy, as Hitchcock and his team skillfully tie up all loose ends, leaving us with a wry smile while also feeling like we’ve been cleverly outmaneuvered by the director—and there’s no doubt about it, we've experienced a film of undeniable quality. 10/10

Source on TMDB