Variety (1999) - Dial H for Hitchcock

Details

• article: Dial H for Hitchcock
• author(s): Eddie Cockrell
• journal: Variety (01/Nov/1999)
• issue: volume 376, issue 11, page 91
• journal ISSN: 0042-2738
• publisher: Variety Publishing Company
• keywords: Alfred Hitchcock Presents (TV), Alfred Hitchcock, Alma Reville, Dial H for Hitchcock (1999), Documentary films, Film directors, Films, Joseph Stefano, Kaleidoscope Frenzy, MacGuffin, Marnie (1964), Motion picture directors & producers, Motion pictures, Psycho (1960), Saboteur (1942), Vertigo (1958)

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Abstract

"Dial H for Hitchcock," directed by Ted Haimes, is reviewed.

Article

Dial H for Hitchcock

A slick, fast-paced gloss on life and legacy of the master of suspense, "Dial H for Hitchcock," tellingly subtitled "The Genius Behind the Showman," concentrates on helmer's groundbreaking use of the medium and infallible instinct for self-promotion. Added angle is the influence, illustrated in home movies, of wife and adviser Alma Reville. Broadcast Aug. 13 on Encore as part of Hitchcock centennial celebration, item has potential as easy entree to helmer's work.

Ignoring his early years and sprinting through his first 23 films in a dizzying 17 minutes, pic segues to thought-provoking analyses of selected American productions, from "Saboteur" through newly revered "Marnie." Inevitably , "Psycho" gets the most time, with screenwriter Joseph Stefano remembering director's proclamation "We get a star, then we kill her." Clever montage sequences illustrate the famed MacGuffin plot trick and close-ups of his trademark icy blondes, with a few brief test shots from unrealized '60s experimental pic "Kaleidoscope." Tech credits are smooth, with comfy interview segs and lavish use of clips, latter suffering only from full-frame treatment of "Vertigo." Kevin Spacey's droll narration echoes director's delivery, illustrated by amusing "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" clips.