For movie viewers in the 21st century it seems Rear Window a film by Alfred Hitchcock written by John Michael Hayes is one they may not be aware of. Well you should be. Many films have used this formula first established by Hitchcock since its release. In fact as recently as Disturbia (2006) a somewhat homage to Rear Window, but some would argue flat out rip off. The feeling created by Hitchcock of being isolated in a room or house with no power to leave or do anything about what you see out your window. Questions like whats my neighbor up to with that trunk? Why's his wife missing? Whats that bag with blood all over it? The viewers mind runs wild with the possibilities. The key though is the moment in the film when you find yourself mad at the main character the supposed hero for spying on the murderer in the first place. Again Hitchcock makes you sympathize with the character we normally hate. It's this moral dilemma that drives many of his films..but never better done then in REAR WINDOW.
Grace Kelly and James Stewart both Hitchcock favorites are a perfect match in this film. Stewart's great role as the wheelchair ridden "LB Jeffries". a writer who is afraid of his love for Kelly's character "Lisa Anne Fremont". Kelly's first entrance into the movie is one of the best shots in film history. Throughout the picture Stewart and Kelly have many fun exchanges as well as tense moments like when Kelly risks her self to snoop around for Stewart.
In closing if you want to watch the genesis for the modern next door killer thriller...REAR WINDOW is that movie.
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