...engaging and discerning culture, as a way of life...

May 11, 2007

Shadow of a Doubt - 7

This is another great Hitchcock film. This film plays on the "doubles" theme that is in a number of his films, with Uncle Charlie (Joseph Cotten) visiting from the east, his sister's family whose oldest daughter is also named Charlie (Teresa Wright). A joyful reunion soon gathers tension as suspicion gains credibility as Charlie's reason for visiting becomes clearer. The story develops around young Charlie's initial fascination with the similarities to her Uncle and their special bond. But as she starts to learn more about him, she realizes that the reflection is not so flattering. They have divergent visions of humanity and the future- leading to a final confrontation. I especially like Hitchcock for his ability to help the viewer reflect while also being amused by watching his films, without seeming preachy- just honest and wise.

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