311. The Wrong Man (1956)
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock
Synopsis
A true case of mistaken identity leads to the crumbling of a man's life and that of his family.
Review
In an interesting move Hitchcock makes a "based on a true story" film, it would be strange if the story didn't look like it was perfect Hitchcock fodder. This is one of Hitchcock's most uncomfortable films to watch, it has a sense of claustrophobia and almost Kafkian surreality that leaves a sour taste in the viewer's mouth.
The film is brilliantly cast, Henry Fonda has the exact look of earnestness necessary to pull off this character caught in horrible circumstances. The soundtrack by Bernard Hermann adds to the general feel of uneasiness in a perfect way.
Another interesting thing that can be seen here is Hitchcock's push for realism, possibly because this is a true story he seems to toy with ideas form Italian neo-realism, non-professional bit-parts, filming in the real locations etc. Again this works perfectly. A great film, even if it is very uncomfortable watching.
Final Grade
9/10
Trivia
From Wikipedia:
Alfred Hitchcock's cameo is a signature occurrence in most of his films. In The Wrong Man he can be seen (at the beginning of the film) in silhouette standing in a darkened street as he advises the audience the film is a true story. The prison scenes were filmed in a real prison. When Manny (Henry Fonda) is taken to his cell, one of the actual inmates shouts 'What'd they get ya for, Henry?'.
Trailer:
Synopsis
A true case of mistaken identity leads to the crumbling of a man's life and that of his family.
Review
In an interesting move Hitchcock makes a "based on a true story" film, it would be strange if the story didn't look like it was perfect Hitchcock fodder. This is one of Hitchcock's most uncomfortable films to watch, it has a sense of claustrophobia and almost Kafkian surreality that leaves a sour taste in the viewer's mouth.
The film is brilliantly cast, Henry Fonda has the exact look of earnestness necessary to pull off this character caught in horrible circumstances. The soundtrack by Bernard Hermann adds to the general feel of uneasiness in a perfect way.
Another interesting thing that can be seen here is Hitchcock's push for realism, possibly because this is a true story he seems to toy with ideas form Italian neo-realism, non-professional bit-parts, filming in the real locations etc. Again this works perfectly. A great film, even if it is very uncomfortable watching.
Final Grade
9/10
Trivia
From Wikipedia:
Alfred Hitchcock's cameo is a signature occurrence in most of his films. In The Wrong Man he can be seen (at the beginning of the film) in silhouette standing in a darkened street as he advises the audience the film is a true story. The prison scenes were filmed in a real prison. When Manny (Henry Fonda) is taken to his cell, one of the actual inmates shouts 'What'd they get ya for, Henry?'.
Trailer:
posted by Francisco Silva @ 1:20 AM
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