NORTH BY NORTHWEST

     One of the most brilliantly constructed and perfectly executed films ever made, as well as one of the most entertaining, Alfred Hitchcock's NORTH BY NORTHWEST is the work of a master at the peak of his powers.  Hitchcock's ultimate man-on-the-run film, it's an expertly balanced blend of suspense and comedy.  Among its impeccable cast, Eva Marie Saint makes a fine Hitchcockian "ice blonde," Martin Landau a coldly disquieting henchman, and James Mason can ooze sinister charm just standing still.  More notably, the film is one of the best showcases for all of the qualities that made Cary Grant one of the most enduring of screen legends.  The sheer size of his role also requires Grant to control the pace and tone of the film nearly as much as Hitchcock, and he succeeds brilliantly.  From both an artistic and technical standpoint, there isn't a single scene in NORTH BY NORTHWEST that isn't as good as it can possibly be.  Even its conspicuous perfection is entertaining.   - JL

Alfred Hitchcock     Cary Grant     The Stuff You Gotta Watch

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