My First Time Watching Vertigo (1958) & it Absolutely BLEW MY MIND!

[@willv7868]

"Rear Window" is a must watch. Same actor too.

[@MarkMcLT]

And the incandescent Ms Kelly :)

[@BubbaCoop]

My favorite Hitchcock film

[@lilaccilla]

I love that "Perry Mason " 😂played the part so well

[@lilaccilla]

Mine too ! so on the edge of your seat greatness 😅

[@jaimonjohn2516]

I can't believe you called Jimmy Stewart the same actor😅

[@seanculver8876]

I read one notable film critic who called this film ‘…not just one of the greatest films of the 20th century, but one of the greatest works of art of the 20th century.’

[@Eric_L_Laney]

Jimmy Stewart aka James Stewart was one of the most iconic actors who ever lived. He was also very beloved, and he was a very kind human being. Married to the sane woman for 45 years until her passing. He left acting during WW2 to serve his country. It’s a Wonderful Life was the first movie he made after serving as a commander in WW2. He had a long successful career.

[@JeebusVox]

He also is a highly decorated pilot from world War 2

[@duanetelesha]

@@JeebusVox Served 27 years retired Brigadier General, (one star).

[@gallendugall8913]

He is also in 1936's After The Thin Man. The Thin Man was one of the first big movie franchises.

[@RetiredSailor60]

He retired from the US Air Force as a Brigadier General

[@krbkrbkrbkrbkrb]

My wife's step father flew with him in the war. Claimed that Stewart got him started smoking cigars.

[@smg85051]

Don't forget the music! Bernard Hermann did the scores for several Hitchcock films and this was The Composer at his finest. I was lucky enough to see Vertigo in the theatre after it had been restored. Magnificent!

[@markc.7984]

Here's my favorite easter egg ever: go back to the scene in the middle when Scotty and "Madeline" go to the Mission the first time, they are kissing, and she tells him to let her go into the church. LISTEN TO HER VOICE. Spoiler: for just a moment, she breaks character, and speaks with Judy's accent: "It wasn't supposed to happen this way!" Hitchcock put it right in front of our faces and we missed it. Amazing.

[@Fanfanbalibar]

At that moment we hadn't seen Judy yet !

[@darkhoursofday6250]

James Stewart: Every time a bell rings, a girl I love falls out of a clock tower.

[@Billinois78]

That's right. That's right. 'Atta boy, Alfred. (wink)

[@billwilson7948]

@@Billinois78you & @darkhoursofday6250 KWACKED ME UP‼️😝😂😍🔥🔥🔥 Thank you!

[@Progger11]

God of mercy.

[@captbunnykiller1.0]

I have to confess, I laughed.

[@frankmahovlich5099]

There goes Madeline...no Carlota...I mean Judy...a, ah, Madeline...Judy? This is crazier than Faye Dunaway in China Town: "My sister, my daughter ...sister...ah,daughter sister." If you know, you know.

[@markhamiel7407]

You need to watch Rear Window, it's Hitchcock, suspenseful, and Jimmy Stewart is the main character.

[@buttercupstruelove340]

I've watched "Rear Window" a couple of times in the past year and it's still quite an effective thriller that builds tension.

[@MsAppassionata]

I LOVE Thelma Ritter in that film. Her character was hilarious.

[@Wolfcrag85]

A man that falls madly in love with a woman that doesn't exist. Pure genius.

[@Fanfanbalibar]

Only Sir Alfred could do this !

[@clarkness77]

Maybe that's what Hitchcock was trying to express? He fell in love with the characters his leading ladies played

[@RetroView66]

The close up of Midge's eyes when she tells him about their time together shows she still loves him.

[@12classics39]

And yet, unlike Scottie and Judy, she makes the right choice, accepts that her feelings are unhealthy, and moves on with her life. And thus she survives the film with her sanity and reputation intact.

[@thepodbaydoorshal]

Can I just say how much joy you bring from your laughter? It’s infectious!

[@jonathonrose5141]

Regarding the long moments of no dialog, and the use of silence. Hitch was a silent movie director long before sound films became a thing, so he used a lot of those techniques. One of his most famous quotes about filmmaking is "If it's a good movie, the sound could go off and the audience would still have a perfectly clear idea of what was going on."

[@brachiator1]

Great insight. Hitchcock often deliberately includes a scene without dialog in his films. It is as much a little joke as his cameo.

[@hagerty1952]

He did, in fact, direct the first sound film made in England: "Blackmail."

[@Fanfanbalibar]

Yes indeed !

[@markmartineau1015]

James Stewart is the undeniable perfect everyman. Nothing about his portrayals ever make you you think he isn't anything but the guy next door. Hitchcock was a maestro at cinematography doing so much with out all the tech available that his movies are still amazing 60 years after.

[@billolsen4360]

In 1991, my sister had to take some publicity photos over to the Stewarts' house because she was involved in a dog-rescue charity that Gloria Stewart had help found. Jimmy Stewart answered the front door himself, rather than a servant and he was every bit a gentleman.

[@Fanfanbalibar]

Not surprising !@@billolsen4360

[@thomastimlin1724]

@@billolsen4360 Amazing! She must have spent a long time there listening to Jimmy stutter...lol, just kidding...I'm envious, i would have liked to meet Jimmy Stewart. From the comedy roles he played in may cases you would never guess he was a great pilot in WWII, highly decorated

[@RetroView66]

"You were a very apt pupil..." is Stewart's finest acting moment.

[@Srial3523]

If you're in the mood for an old school mystery/comdey I can't recomment "Arsenic and Old Lace" nearly enough. My favorite Cary Grant role. Also the first five 'Thin Man' movies are hilarous and fun mysteries too. Forget the 6th.

[@roachman1412]

Your right these are also my favorites also My Man Godfrey, Life With Father uncolorized I prefer in original black and white jeez showing my age

[@lilaccilla]

Harvey

[@lilaccilla]

@@roachman1412 My Man Godfrey is one I absolutely Love too

[@shawnmiller4781]

I also like Cary Grants comedy chops in “Father Goose” as well

[@raymondtaylor5223]

That was a heck of a reaction. The type Hitchcock intended with this gem. Two things. Jimmy Stewart was a class act. I talked to a Hollywood tour guide, while on his tour van and he stated that when Stewart was alive, he would come out of his home to greet the tourists in the van. Plus, we cannot forget Bernard Herrmann's mesmerizing score. He composed the theme for the twilight Zone as well. Steven Speilberg once met him and commented as to how big a fan he was of Hermann. Hermann got angry and asked, if you are a fan of mine, how come you never hire me for any of your films? Spielberg didn't know how to respond and the two parted their ways. Later that evening Hermann had a massive heart attack and passed away whereby Spielberg never got a chance to redeem himself. Ironically, the last composer Hitchcock ever worked with was John Williams.

[@treetopjones737]

As a youngster Spielberg snuck onto the studio lot. You CANNOT do that now. Good security.

[@Fanfanbalibar]

Destiny !

[@josephciolino5493]

Hermann did NOT write the theme to Twilight Zone. Where did you get that?

[@davepolo1079]

Wow, what a story. Thanks for sharing that!

[@ElectricKnight.]

This movie is exhilarating. So glad you enjoyed the ride! You will love, love, love, love Rear Window. Another Hitchcock movie starring Jimmy Stewart again. It is very different, but an absolutely amazing premise, as per usual for Hitchcock (and the movie also stars the fantabulous beyond words Grace Kelly). We love your enthusiasm! ❤❤❤

[@billolsen4360]

And don't forget to see "Anatomy Of A Murder" with Mr. Stewart as the main character, made by Otto Preminger in 1959. Another landmark film with Jimmy playing a down-to-earth criminal lawyer opposite the gorgeous, up and coming Lee Remick.

[@RoosterCogburn1008]

This Hitchcock journey is all I could have ever wanted and more!! Thank you, and I hope it continues!

[@Kurtiscott]

You nailed it: this film is like a dream. Probably why re-watching it over the years has always been such a pleasure. Its a pretty bold choice of Hitchcock’s to have Scotty become as thoroughly creepy with his demands of Judy. But he is a man both obsessed and shattered at that point in the story, so his motivations do make sense. Also, bold (and understandable) that Judy being so guilt ridden and in love that she would put up with him. Which all leads to that tragic ending. Anyway, your deep appreciation for this masterpiece was utterly fantastic to watch! Cheers

[@christopherleodaniels7203]

I tell you that every time you see this film, it gets deeper, and you’ll see new layers and levels to it. The idea that Judy was a low-self-esteem girl, who let TWO guys transform her into THE SAME dead woman, is mind-blowing to me. Not to mention, the meta, self-referential touch of Hitchcock having an obsession with this ice-cool blonde archetype, that he kept trying to recreate with different actresses throughout his career…. That Hitchcock followed this with North By Northwest, then Psycho, then The Birds and never won an Oscar for Best Director is a crime.

[@TSIRKLAND]

Yeah, poor Judy! She got suckered into a con by one rich guy, then fell in love with her mark, who she later let coerce her into the same transformation. Poor gal.

[@Freshwater121]

The most surprising part of this video is Miranda not knowing the Golden Gate Bridge

[@glennwisniewski9536]

LOL. I have to admit I was thinking the very same thing.

[@Temeraire101]

I thought seeing the city of San Fran would’ve been a bit of a clue. 😁

[@treetopjones737]

@@Temeraire101 She also commented on the steep hills, suspect she's never visited the city.

[@shawnmiller4781]

These days it’s hard to see either behind all the wino’s living on the street

[@Temeraire101]

@@shawnmiller4781 Yeh, heard it's bad in parts there now. Vertigo has some lovely shots though. Same goes for a couple of the Dirty Harry films as well.

[@sreyangovender3404]

It was only on a second watch that I realized the film is not just a psychological thriller but also a mournful meditation on loss, trauma and guilt

[@aaronhusk]

In the color palette of this movie, green is obsession.

[@PlanetTerror406]

Great reaction and love your channel! Rear Window (also w/Jimmy Stewart) & North by Northwest are my 2 other favorite Hitchcock movies & I think you'd love them both, and Rope/Shadow of a Doubt/Notorious are great as well.

[@akadros310]

I am 100% with you. I am a huge Hitchcock fan but Rear Window & North by Northwest are at the top of my list as well and absolute musts. Your other suggestions are also great but I would also throw in Strangers on a Train and The Man Who Knew too Much (the remake)

[@PlanetTerror406]

@@akadros310 Great choices too! I love his 40's movies, but for me his run of movies in the 50's up through Psycho in 1960 just can't be topped.

[@akadros310]

@@PlanetTerror406 yes. They don't call him the master of suspense for nothing

[@aubrey8673]

Such amazing film I used to watch this with my parents as a child and I was so beautifully haunted by it. I didn’t fully understand every theme and story line as a kid and now rewatching it as an adult I realized how much I missed. That ending will always give me chills The score to this film is so eerily and beautifully haunting.

[@laurenanderson61]

Jimmy Stewart flew bombers in WWII. He came home with what we would now recognize as PTSD and immediately made It's a Wonderful Life.

[@hartspot009]

Upon release, this film was not popular and not understood by audiences of the time. It was ahead of its time, and it took years for it to be recognized for what it is: a masterpiece of psychological suspense. Also, pay attention to subtle clues: the color green, blue, and gray to signify changes. The initial scene of Scotty trailing her through town...always going downhill, signifying falling (vertigo). Such masterful touches. The movie was filmed in San Fransisco CA. There ARE countless evaluations and essays on this film, and it is part of many film school classes

[@jwoodard29]

The scene where Judy leaves the bathroom to become Madeline is one of the most powerful in all of film. It is as if Scotty has defeated death itself.

[@HuntingViolets]

I'm so glad you liked this! I watched a reaction recently where they didn't like it at all.

[@matthewstroud4294]

Total masterwork. William Friedkin has a great commentary on Vertigo available on KZbin, it's almost as fascinating as the film.

[@jackal59]

I was fortunately enough to see this in the theater when it was revived in the 1980s with a newly-struck print.

[@SZMTHEKING]

Thank you for taking time to react to this. When people ask me to recommend one movie, I simply reply, "Hitchcock, Vertigo." The themes on love, trauma and psychosis are unparalleled. 🍷🦇🖤🎩

[@Beaglegirl1120]

This movie this considered to be the greatest mystery film of all time. So your reaction was absolutely prefect ❤

[@GrabThatOnion]

Apart from the three Hitchcock films you've already watched, my other favourites are: 1. The 39 Steps (1935) 2. Shadow of a Doubt (1943) 3. Rope (1948) 4. Rear Window (1954) 5. The Man Who Knew Too Much (The 1956 remake of his 1934 film) 3, 4, and 5 are with James Stewart - one of my ALL TIME favourite actors. Thank you for a wonderful reaction to this phenomenal film. I'm so happy you enjoyed it as much as you did! 😊

[@joebloggs396]

I'm on board with the first 3.

[@Temeraire101]

Out of those my favs Rope and Rear Window.

[@shawnmiller4781]

I’d add Lifeboat and Something About Harry to that list

[@acdragonrider]

Notorious is my favorite. Must be included!

[@no-oneinparticular7264]

My favourite is Rear window, then Rope. The rest are great, actually I love all of them. 😂

[@JarlStaubhold]

One of my all time favorite movies. I love Vertigo!

[@davidfox5383]

Miranda, your enthusiasm for this great film is delightful! This is not only considered by many to be Hitch's greatest film, but it has been for some time number one on the greatest films of all time. You will see many here who consider Rear Window Hitchcock's greatest, and it's difficult to argue with that since it is also fantastic. I prefer to stay with Team Vertigo, only because all the elements here - the music, cinematography, the hero's dreamlike journey and ultimate descent into hell, the twists, the use of color and light, and the metaphor for Hitchcock's personal career and his obsessive makeovers of his actresses into objects of desire...there are just so many layers here that Rear Window, as perfect and great as it is, can't begin to touch. Keep up your cinematic journey...your content is very entertaining!

[@NiallMor]

James Stewart is one of the greatest actors of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Any movie with him in it is worth a watch.

[@nealtvaroha6564]

What a joy watching your reactions, Miranda :) You're obviously extraordinarily intelligent and insightful, and it's a great pleasure to see your introductions to many of my favorite movies! Thank you for all the hard work, and for letting me share these experiences with you. You're one of my favorite people on KZbin.

[@michaelt6218]

It's hard to pick only one movie as Hitchcock's "magnum opus." He literally made at least a dozen films that might qualify. The deeper you dive into his catalogue, the more impressed you will be. I strongly recommend The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956), Rear Window (1954), Dial M For Murder (1954), Strangers on a Train (1951), Notorious (1946), Shadow of a Doubt (1943), The Lady Vanishes (1938), and his first masterpiece, The 39 Steps (1935).

[@ThePhully]

Rope needs to be on that list, also.

[@michaelt6218]

@@ThePhully No, not for me. I actually think Rope is one of Hitchcock's worst movies.

[@nazfrde]

North By Northwest has got to be on the list.

[@michaelt6218]

@@nazfrde For some, maybe, but not for me. Although NBN is fairly good, it's not top-tier Hitchcock.

[@brachiator1]

Good to see British Hitchcock represented. I do not understand the acclaim for Rope, which seems like an exercise in technique, not a truly enjoyable experience.

[@red-stapler574]

What makes this movie for me is the score. Bernard Herman has done many of Hitchcock movies among others. But this for me is his best. Close seconds are Cape Fear and Taxi Driver

[@graywade9225]

First, what an incredible reaction! You are so perceptive and you get super-engaged. Masterpiece indeed. I don't recall if you made mention of it, but how about that Bernard Hermann score. The music from this film is the most intense I've ever heard. I think it's Hermann's magnum opus. And what more to say about James Stewart. Finally, hahahaha When Judy asks him what he does. You: "He's a professional wanderer!" 🤣

[@mb1234567890a]

The scariest part, parrallel parking... You're funny Miranda!🤣🤣🤣

[@anthonydudas-artist6103]

Loved your reaction, as this is my favorite film ever. I think your take was pretty spot on. I would just add that the film score by Bernard Herrmann is absolutely vital to this movie. Great job...am now a subscriber. 😎👌🖤

[@marcquestenberg8385]

"Somewhere in here I was born... and here I died and it was only a moment for you... you took no notice..."

[@staffan-]

Best reaction to Vertigo ever! My favourite Hitchcock movie too.

[@anrun]

She didn't "jump" at the end. In a highly emotional moment, she was startled, backed away and slipped off the ledge. I think Vertigo can fairly be called the greatest film ever made. Calling it dreamlike is spot on.

[@Progger11]

Something else a lot of people miss is that the nun has Madelyn's voice. So, it's almost like the ghost of the woman she helped kill is haunting her in that moment. It frightens her and she backs away, not thinking about her liability to fall.

[@etherealtb6021]

My reaction when I first saw the movie was that she thought the nun was the Angel of Death and backed up in fear.

[@anrun]

@@etherealtb6021 Sure. She clearly wasn't in her right mind at that moment.

[@mildredpierce4506]

I have seen this movie many many times, but it wasn’t until I saw it on the big screen at a Hitchcock retrospective, that I realized what a truly great movie this is. I would highly recommend watching Alfred Hitchcock movies at a theater if you can.

[@debradavis3935]

I’m so glad you watched this! This is absolutely one of my favorite Alfred Hitchcock movies and I’ve watched it at least 50 times. I never tire of watching it! Now that you’ve seen The Birds and Vertigo, you have to see Rear Window! That is the trilogy of Alfred Hitchcock’s best movies! Enjoy ❤❤❤

[@sarahfullerton6894]

And "Rear Window" is another James Stewart movie. It's got a lot of humor in it, though.

[@TubeMySwag]

Out of all the Hitchcock films I've seen, Vertigo is my absolute favorite. Probably my favorite movie of all time. The acting, the storyline, the score, the subtle details in colorism, the camera work, the beautiful filing locations in San Francisco, etc...all chefs kiss. An absolutely flawless movie. I'd argue "Rear Window" as his second best film from his catalogue. Awesome reaction!

[@malthesse]

To me this is probably Hitchcock’s creepiest movie. It gives you such an uneasy and icky feel. A movie that first seems to be an intriguing supernatural detective story turns into this really dark tale of unhealthy obsession and mental illness. It is also a movie that only gets better on rewatch, as you pick up more of the details. Both James Stewart and Kim Novak are so good. I’ve read that at the time, Stewart was basically only known for playing charming good guy roles, so the turn of his character in this one shocked a lot of people - especially since he starts out the movie with mostly his ordinary charming persona. Some people also criticized the big age difference between Stewart and Novak, but to me that actually helps in seeing Novak’s character as more a vulnerable and naive victim, and you do feel really sorry for her - which is a rather impressive considering she was actually heavily involved in a murder plot!

[@Tuning_Spork]

Your applause at the end has stirred a memory.... There was a time when "Vertigo", "Rear Window" and several other Hitchcock films were unavailable. For many years there were no theater showings or TV broadcasts allowed because of some contracts and copyrights and monies, or something...) Eventually, those issues were resolved and "Vertigo" et al. were re-released. In December 1983, I, a 20-year-old college student, sat in a dark movie theater in Greenwich Village and watched a 25-year-old movie called "Vertigo". This was only the second time (and, to date, the last time) that I'd been a part of a movie audience applauding at the end of the movie. 👏👏👏 Your reaction was our reaction 40-friggin'-years-ago. (Just in case you're interested: The first time I experienced a movie ending with audience applause was "Airport '77". Weird.)

[@azcomicgeek]

Vertigo was filmed in San Francisco and showcased a lot of iconic architecture.

[@glennwisniewski9536]

There are several youtubes that examine the Vertigo locations. Here's a good one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmSQYZSJep17jpo.

[@captbunnykiller1.0]

How beautiful San Francisco was in those days. This movie is like a love letter to the city.

[@RickSimmons-ej1pv]

During a visit to San Francisco in 1996, we saw so many sites Hitchcock filmed. Scotty's apartment is still there, with its distinctive railing. The film guide book said "please don't knock on the current occupant's door! They have no idea what you are bothering them for."

[@markdettra1794]

The man in the bookshop who shared the story about Carlotta Valdez with Scotty & Midge , has a very thick accent . You thought he said "Carlotta would STAB people on the street" but , he actually says "STOP people on the street ..... " first time hearing it , sounded like 'stab' to me also. I've seen Vertigo about 200 times , and the way 'Pop' in the bookshop pronounces 'HER' with that hard rolling 'R' cracks me up no matter how prepared i am to hear it. I have another extraordinary movie to recommend , called 'PANDORA and THE FLYING DUTCHMAN'. I'd dare say it's an amazing mystery comparable to Vertigo - high praise I know ! You're the perfect "reactor" for this rich tale . Just as complex as Vertigo , but has a somewhat more happy ending . I love your enthusiasm for this Hitchcock gem ! Thankyou so much .

[@Bigandrewm]

Shout out to Bernard Hermann for the musical score to Vertigo. One of the all-time greats.

[@ScrotieJohnson]

so good it was stolen and merged with the score from the og cape fear (also a hermman score)to be used in scorsese’s remake of cape fear.

[@anderssundin354]

Yeah, Vertigo and Rear Window are my favorites of his movies.

[@stpetie7686]

From Mel Brooks to Alfred Hitchcock. Man, you have to appreciate the lady's taste. Keep it up, Miranda!

[@dariamorgendorffer7813]

It's so funny to watch people watching movies that I watch when I was 15!!! And only now realizing that this is a masterpiece!!! This movie is always, for me, the best movie ever. I have watched so many movies since. But, no other movies ever took pole position. James Stewart is truly amazing in that movie. His eyes, his melancholia, etc. No wonder Hitchcock used him several times!!! I remember people taught that Psycho was Hitchcock's best, but Vertigo is the best one. It's so complex, the concept of repetition, the concept of dreams and what is real or not, the concept of molding someone to the image we think is the best. She's like his creation!!!

[@kevinlewallen4778]

I'm with you, this is by far my favorite Hitchcock. The likeable Jimmy Stewart gets all creepy and obsessive near the end, of course he's been through a lot. I love that twist in his character. And doesn't the cinematography make San Francisco gorgeous? My only advice is, watch it again. And again. Repeat ad infinitum. Thanks for loving one of my top movies of all time.

[@davidfox5383]

I remember going to San Francisco for the first time in the late nineties, before Fort Point was all fenced off. I just sat there alone at the foot of the Golden Gate and meditated and soaked in that magnificent view. The movie really captures the haunting quality of that city and I enjoyed revisiting some of the other filming locations.

[@kenthawkins5558]

Your enthusiasm at discovering these movies is so infectious. I love watching your find an appreciation for movies that may otherwise have been forgotten

[@ComeOnIsSuchAJoy]

I'd recommend also watching "Spellbound" before "High Anxiety," given that the plot of the latter spoofs a lot of the plot points in the former. In the meantime, also please react to "Silent Movie." It's my favorite Mel Brooks film after "The Producers," yet *NO ONE* has ever reacted to it, as far as I know.

[@epsteinisms1483]

The shower scene with Burt Reynolds had me roaring in helpless laughter!

[@RDRussell2]

I've got to agree. Silent Movie, for some reason, is just sorta forgotten, but it's got some great laughs in it. And I've got to agree that Spellbound should come before High Anxiety.

[@frankmahovlich5099]

Also, two places in the movie that grab my heart are when Scoty asks; Judy to dye her hair and she replies, "Will you love me then?"; later, in the church tower, when he's angry and telling Judy he recognized the necklace, Scoty chokes on saying, "You shouldn't have been so sentimental." still feeling the love & loss by the betrayal.

[@AlexSwanson-rw7cv]

29:28 That's done by moving the camera forward or back, while zooming out or in (respectively) so as to keep the objects at a selected depth the same size while changing the size of the objects behind and in front of it. Famously used in Jaws when the camera moves "in" on Brody when he's sitting on the beach and sees the attack.

[@eduardo_corrochio]

I love the Dolly Zoom technique. So good.

[@dereknolin5986]

Hitchcock often gets the credit for inventing that "dolly zoom" technique, but was Irmin Roberts, a cameraman working for Hitchcock who developed the technique after Hitchcock described the effect he wanted to achieve. It's been used countless times, but one that comes to mind is in Poltergeist when the mom is heading down a hallway.

[@steveforsyth7269]

Believe it or not - critics HATED this movie when it came out. But it has definitely become one of his most highly regarded.

[@Fanfanbalibar]

Critics.... that's all they can do!

[@tubekulose]

If you like 1950s' fashion so much, just dress that way! I myself, for instance, have been dressing more or less like gentlemen from the late 19th/early 20th century since highschool, because I simply love that style. 🙂

[@eddawg79]

My life is falling apart and I feel like I'm overwhelmed most of the time but Miranda's videos are one of the few bright spots I've got left and I can't be more thankful for that. Hope everyone has a wonderful day.

[@takakhan-z3w]

I'm always so happy when I see a reactor watch my favorite film of all time. ❤ Hitchcock made this movie to be sort of a valentine to San Francisco, so you can still visit nearly all of the locations in this movie if you ever make a trip. This is one of those movies where I always feel like I notice something new and fascinating every single time I watch it. Each rewatch offers another revelation.

[@natureterp]

HARVEY - with Jimmy Stewart. A must watch!

[@lisakovanen1975]

Yes! The best!

[@billwilson7948]

The setting : so so bee-a-u-tiful! San Francisco, California area. The Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay, the hills, the architecture, the park. The redwood trees are perhaps in the John Muir Woods park, just a short drive north. California has lots (two types) of redwoods in parks. You’ll have to travel there. I’m a flat landscape Illinois boy and I’ve been to San Francisco three times. It’s flabbergastingly incredible. ❤🤩

[@glennwisniewski9536]

I can clear up that redwoods question. The movie implies that it's Muir Woods National Monument but Hitchcock couldn't get a filming permit for that location. So, Big Basin Redwood State Park, 60 miles away from San Francisco, was used instead.

[@neilfleming2787]

OMG, I spat my tea everywhere when you said 'over the shoulder boulder holder'.......

[@DannyCheek]

The first time that I ever heard that expression was in the 1980s while watching an episode of "Punky Brewster".

[@manny75586]

"North by Northwest" is usually considered the pinnacle of his work. Though he has tons of top tier films (Strangers on a Train, Notorious, Rear Window, Rebecca, Foreign Correspondent, 39 Steps and Shadow of a Doubt for starters)

[@sheert]

I think if people picked a single best movie of his, it won't be that one. It's usually Vertigo or Psycho? (And I think Psycho is overrated.) I would consider it in his top 5.

[@joebloggs396]

North By Northwest is blockbuster Hitchcock not film critic's Hitchcock.

[@brachiator1]

Vertigo was for a number of years selected by Sight and Sound film journal as the greatest film of all time.

[@shawnmiller4781]

Don’t forget Lifeboat and Something About Harry. Edit: Watch Mel Brooks’s homage to Hitchcock “High Anxiety” after a few more films to get the references

[@TTM9691]

I don't know who told you that, but that's a complete falsehood. It's definitely one of his most famous and popular movies, and it's a real good one for sure, some people's favorites, definitely a must see......but Psycho and Vertigo, with Rear Window close by.....those three "usually considered" interchangably the pinnacle of his work. They study those three in film classes. Notorious used to be cited, way back in the day. Those kissing scenes have been dissected endlessly. Strangers On A Train SHOULD be mentioned in those terms, lol. North By Northwest definitely is acknowledged and appreciated as well, don't get me wrong, but not as the "pinnacle" of his work.

[@NiallMor]

Yes, James Stewart was the male lead in both "It's a Wonderful Life" and this movie--two roles that are about as different as you can get.

[@1953jazzman]

It gives me such hope for the future of these cinema gems that there are a few wonderful young people like yourself that are able to fully engage with and appreciate them! I can tell that the rest of your life will be greatly enriched if you choose to watch James Stewart's incredible catalog of films! I know mine has been - he remains my favorite actor of all time! Keep up the great work! :)

[@DeadPOOLParty]

Great Reaction Vertigo is my favorite Hitchcock film as well. Some other great suspenseful thrillers you should watch is Wait Until Dark 1967 and The Game 1997

[@williambowman1660]

Another outstanding reaction. Many people judge a movie by its age yet they have no problem admiring a painting from 200 years ago. You will enjoy the many articles about this perplexing masterpiece. There are so many small, large, and elusive themes that are discovered with each viewing. James Stewart was almost always great but the revelation was Kim Novak. The next time you see Vertigo watch how different she plays her body language in her scenes and then how she portrays a woman to become a woman that only existed in Scotty’s memory and mind. A great performance. Stewart and Novak made another film that year that is entirely different. Stewart plays a businessman who falls victim to the desires or witch Novak in the romance comedy Bell, Book, and Candle. Smart move and choices to see these before High Anxiety. You would have to see at least another 10 Hitchcock movies to get all the references but you will laugh and have a good time with Mel Brooks underrated movie.

[@cliftonwebb3295]

This is like no other film I’ve seen - viewing it is like being trapped in an inescapable dream. An absolute and incredible classic.

[@michaelceraso1977]

wow, very well done Miranda. This film has been rated right up there with the greats. I do like rear Window because of my own film choices but this has so many deep psychological themes. I believe there are reasons for the colors used too. This was the last film that Hitchcock used Jimmy Stewart as he felt he looked too old and , then used Cary Grant (who was actually older than jimmy) for another classic- North by Northwest

[@tristramcoffin926]

This is one of the best films I've ever seen. I was mystified by it for a month after the first time I watched it. I am only at the opening of your reaction but I am looking forward to this.

[@danielkrings3255]

My personal top 5, besides of the 3 you watched are: 1. The 39 steps 2. The lady vanishes 3. North by Northwest 4. Spellbound 5. Rebecca Ultimatley there is no bad Hitchcock movie. Same main cast as in Vertigo: Bell book and candle. A really nice Comedy Keep in watching these real old gems! So nice to see they still working😊

[@tuxdude1]

I'm very excited you're watching my favorite movie! Awesome! Let's go.

[@FermatSim]

Every once in a while I think I have new favorite movie... then I watch Vertigo (or a reaction to it) again, and I'm reminded - yes, that's the best of them all...

[@javimu111]

You are so dead-on RIGHT on your Review of this great masterpiece. I've loved it since I first saw it in the early 1980's. What a movie! What a great Director! James Stewart was so Amazing!

[@qqq1701]

Lol my grandparents had that exact flip out step up chair. I've heard everyone used to have one.

[@channelthree9424]

At the inquest, Jimmy Stewart is saying so much with his eyes without saying a word.

[@no288]

Yep, you feel so bad for him

[@meganlutz7150]

I just knew you would love this one ! The fact that you appreciate the genius of Hitchcock shows what great taste you have. I hope you also watch Rear Window, Rebecca, and Notorious. Think you would enjoy all three. Also, since you seem to really like movies that delve into psychology I think you should also check out Spellbound. Just have a feeling you would appreciate that one too. Thanks for the great reaction!

[@RoosterCogburn1008]

I second everything on this list!

[@mattx449]

Excellent reaction. We love you.

[@laurenmichel9686]

Regarding the color green - which you might already know if you did a deep dive into this film's history, but just in case - green is meant to symbolize death. It's worth noting the meaning of the trees as stated in the film means "evergreen," undying. That's why when Judy completes her transformation into Madeleine she's bathed in the color, having symbolically killed herself but also it's like Madeleine is back from the dead. I also love how "Madeleine's" coloring is neutral, even her hair, it evokes a sort of blank canvas, and we never get to know much about her either, so it's easy for Scottie to fall for her and never let the idea of her go because she was flawless, literally and figuratively not a real person, just a projection of whatever he imagined her to be - whereas Judy is colorful (first seen in a green dress no less) and rough around the edges, a real person. Same with Midge, who upon first watching is odd, but in hindsight I feel so bad for her. I think this story would've been VERY different if we'd had her perspective to relate to and see the scenes with her in it through her eyes... Just a great commentary on how clever it is to have Scottie as our protagonist, we go along with it all without realizing how far gone he is. Hitchcock liked to manipulate the audience like that, having us identify with questionable characters. Btw, the camera shot you love is called a "Zolly," or a "Dolly Zoom" - the effect is done by zooming in (or out) while simultaneously physically moving the camera in the opposite direction (i.e. zoom in while pulling the camera back and vice versa) - one of my favorite techniques as well. The color green has long been associated with the supernatural as well in different cultures, so it's pretty fitting to tie it to death in this film. Kim Novak and Jimmy Stewart also did a film called Bell Book & Candle that co-stars Novak's own cat :) Novak also talked about how easy it was to be around Jimmy Stewart, the two could put their feet up and sit together not saying anything and it would be the most natural thing. For more Jimmy Stewart, there's Rear Window (and if you love Hitchcock's silent storytelling technique you'll LOVE this one - co-starring the one and only Grace Kelly, a real-life princess! Seriously, while filming another Hitchcock film she met a prince who she ended up marrying.) But also (for Stewart) there's Harvey, Mr. Smith Goes To Washington, Rope, and the Philadelphia Story that I'd recommend. He was also in The Shop Around The Corner, eventually remade into the Meg Ryan classic You've Got Mail. (Oh, and I'd recommend watching Jimmy Stewart bloopers - just type it into KZbin. If you think he's endearing on film, imagine how precious he is when he messes up! Old Hollywood bloopers in general are the best, they really shatter that illusion that life was all that different back then - hours of fun!) Hard to pick a favorite Hitchcock, I'd put my top five as Shadow of a Doubt, (Hitchcock even said it was his favorite, easily no.1, but I'd tie it with:) Psycho, To Catch A Thief, North By Northwest, and Strangers On A Train (my first film I saw of his). #3 & 4 both star Cary Grant and are more action/adventure mysteries than horror/thrillers, I think you'd have so much fun with them! Cary Grant also did a film called Charade with Audrey Hepburn that's in the same genre that is SO much fun (and that film is even played in the background in Pretty Woman). Loved your reaction! And yes, I had the same thought on first watch: Kim Novak's eyebrows are the definition of perfection.

[@TheBS1000]

This movie is in my top 5 favorite movies. Orson Welles' film Touch of Evil is also one of my favorites and I recommend it.

[@dukesofhell]

Always a joy to watch you react. Such a great movie. Not well liked in it’s day but it’s aged so beautifully. There are many more to enjoy. My personal favourite is Rear Window. An absolute masterclass in movie making. Virtually all on one set, just a few wonderful actors, notably Jimmy Stewart again and Grace Kelly. It’s less complex but just like Vertigo you’ll fall in love with the characters and suffer the ramping tension. Well worth your time.

[@ChrisWake]

Didn't expect my favorite film of all time to pop up on my sub feed 😊. What a great surprise.

[@Dej24601]

So happy you loved this! Just like Hitchcock twisted the audience in the film Psycho when the assumed main character was no longer the main character, in this one, Jimmy Stewart went from innocent victim to obsessed manipulator and back again. The film explores topics of obsession, guilt, retribution and as you said, overcoming your fears.

[@philrob1978]

A spectacular movie - it gets even better on a re-watch. I love this so much - and your reaction was wonderful. You did get some of the nuances, but there's so much depth to this. It is a masterpiece. Fabulous stuff. This is movie making at its finest.

[@Llanchlo]

To keep you hooked when you have no idea what is going on is part of Hitchcock's genius.

[@thetomgibson]

Thank you. Of all the reactors I subscribe to who release stuff on Friday, you are the only one with a decent film.

[@someamericanfanofQE2]

I watched this movie for the first time at least a decade ago, and that ending still haunts me.

[@danielwhitingjr2854]

i saw this movie in College, and the twist still messed with my head. Vertigo holds up giving you the feeling 70 years it was released. That is true timeless art.

[@TrashWerewolf]

Congrats! You figured out the truly amazing part of this movie and what made Hitchcock a genius...he took one of the most beloved actors in the world and made him an obsessive, horrible person! This also was a bit self-reflective of Hitchcock's personal obsession with a certain "type" of woman as his muse.

[@PeterSwift-pd2xf]

Glad you loved it. It is getting better on my Hitchcock list

[@Jeff_Lichtman]

Jimmy Stewart was one of Hitchcock's favorite actors. He was also in the Hitchcock films Rear Window, Rope, and The Man Who Knew Too Much. Other great Jimmy Stewart movies include Anatomy of a Murder, The Philadelphia Story, The Shop Around the Corner, Harvey, and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance. Vertigo was filmed in San Francisco and the surrounding area. The scene where Madeleine jumped into the water was filmed at Fort Point, under the Golden Gate Bridge (which you remarked on). The huge trees were redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument, in Marin County just north of San Francisco. There really is a section of a tree there with the rings marked to indicate historical events. The church with the tower was at Mission San Juan Batista, about an hour and a half drive south of San Francisco. The painting of Carlotta was in The Palace of the Legion of Honor, and her grave was at Mission Dolores, both in San Francisco. All of these landmarks are still there, and fans of the movie can visit them. The shot where Scottie looks down the stairs while following Madeleine is called a dolly zoom, also known as a trombone shot. It's done by moving the camera forward while zooming out at the same time. This makes it look like the background is receding while the foreground stays in place. You remarked on Jimmy Stewart's acting, but Kim Novak also did a fine job. She was playing three characters who were really a single character: Judy (her real self), Madeleine, and Carlotta. The way she carried herself, her facial expressions, her voice, all changed depending on who she was at the time. Her transition from Judy back to Madeleine was smooth and seamless.

[@peteralbert1485]

Every ten years, an international collection of critics and movie makers assembled by the magazine Sight and Sound rate the best movies ever made. In the last three or four looks, Vertigo has climbed the ranks and in 2010, Vertigo was judged #1 among the Best Movie of All Time.

[@kw900lkevin]

The Golden Gate bridge is a sight for sure

[@lisakovanen1975]

I am Swedish and I just thought "wasn't that...?" But then she didn't react to it so I thought "oh I must have been wrong".

[@lithon01]

I love James Stewart. What a legend of cinema