DIAL M FOR MURDER (1954)

Hitchcock stirs up the dust in his classic thriller Dial M for Murder as the story surrounds the former tennis professional Tony Wendice (Ray Milland) who wishes to accomplish the perfect murder of his wife, Margot (Grace Kelly). Tony wants to commit the murder because his wife had an affair over a year ago, which he found out about through a letter. However, as expected something goes wrong and Tony must find a new solution to his plan. The secret of the film is not the killer, but rather if Tony will get away with murder.

Hitchcock displayed brilliant directorial skills as the film keeps its claustrophobic atmosphere while the camera remains in the center of the Wendice living room throughout most of the film. The claustrophobic atmosphere enhances the suspense as you feel cornered and you know that there is no escape, and if the plan should work there can be no mistakes. The close proximity to everything and the predominant use of only one set creates a theatrical scene  However, unlike in theater the audience will feel like they are one of the witnesses in middle of the room who is eavesdropping on Tony’s hideous plan and crime. Through staying on the same location the audience gets much time to recognize details and understand the importance of them in the story.

Dial M for Murder offers a terrific cinematic experience as it offers both suspense and some issues to ponder. The details and depth of the film that truly enhance the cinematic experience are directly related to Hitchcock's input on what should be in the mise-en-scene. The mise-en-scene is absolutely marvelous as it offers detailed information about the characters and adds suspenseful intrigue and surprise.

DIRECTED BY

Alfred Hitchcock

COUNTRY

USA

REVIEWED
9/25/2004
GRADE


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