The Ultimate Top 10 Alfred Hitchcock Films

      Alfred Hitchcock is undeniably a master of film; here are his finest creations...

      When a filmmaker has an illustrious career filled with outstanding movies, fans often find it challenging to rank them. This task is straightforward for directors like Richard Kelly, whose definitive work, Donnie Darko, sets the standard for everything that followed.

      But how do we assess one of cinema's most significant directors, Alfred Hitchcock? With over 60 directing credits, an array that varies from watchable to numerous greats and several absolute masterpieces, it's a daunting challenge. No need to worry, though, as Flickering Myth presents the ultimate ranking of Hitchcock films, featuring the top ten that surpass all others...

      10 – The Lady Vanishes

      Hitchcock has crafted more polished films, which is understandable considering this classic murder mystery dates back to 1938. The storyline has been remade multiple times in plays and TV adaptations due to its compelling concept.

      While on a train traveling across Europe, an elderly woman mysteriously disappears, prompting several passengers to investigate, with some becoming suspects. It's a prime example of the Hitchcockian thriller in an earlier format, successfully capturing attention and delivering its resolution more effectively than other early Hitchcock films, such as The Man Who Knew Too Much (the 1934 version). From the outset, creating a captivating narrative came naturally to him.

      9 – Shadow of a Doubt

      Another pure Hitchcock mystery unfolds as a young girl, initially thrilled by her Uncle's visit, begins to suspect he might be a notorious criminal known as "The Merry Widow Killer." This film is filled with intrigue, great pacing, and excellent performances, particularly from Joseph Cotten, who plays the enigmatic uncle.

      Released during the Hays Code, the film relies on a well-structured script, sharp dialogue (as with many Hitchcock films), and careful build-up rather than resorting to violent spectacles that often serve as a crutch for post-code thriller filmmakers. Modern thrillers frequently overlook the significance of the setup compared to the payoff.

      8 – Rope

      Often overshadowed by Hitchcock's more iconic works, Rope is a chamber piece renowned for being shot in long, uninterrupted takes. With only ten cuts throughout the movie, most expertly concealed, this film showcases not just remarkable acting style (adapted from a play) and technical mastery.

      Rope is a captivating and subversive film featuring a grimly macabre premise where two murderers conceal a body in a room while hosting a dinner party, believing they've executed the perfect crime. Instead of the audience catching up with the reveals, we wait for the characters to align with our perspective. With James Stewart delivering a stellar performance and impeccable blocking (another Hitchcock hallmark) enhancing the film, it remains engaging throughout.

      7 – Strangers on a Train

      This remarkable Hitchcock film boasts a brilliant concept as two strangers meet on a train and lament their lives. They entertain the idea of committing murder for one another, creating the perfect crime, as neither man is connected to the other's residence.

      For one man, the conversation is light-hearted, while the other takes it deadly seriously, leading to a gripping psychological thriller as the consequences of that train discussion unfold tragically. Robert Walker and Farley Granger deliver outstanding performances, and Hitchcock typically keeps the runtime under two hours without it feeling cumbersome.

      6 – Dial M For Murder

      Who would want to murder the charming and captivating Grace Kelly? Surprisingly, it's Ray Milland in yet another outstanding work from the master of thrillers. A husband, suspecting his wife of infidelity, coerces an old acquaintance into killing her.

      As expected from Hitchcock, complications arise from the very start, and this film has inspired numerous works, including Red Rock West and Blood Simple, though none surpass his original execution.

      5 – Rebecca

      This film marked a pivotal moment in Hitchcock's career, introducing layers of psychological complexity that would characterize many of his greatest works. His filmmaking prowess grew increasingly refined, making his creations seem almost timeless.

      While already adept at blocking, the emergence of new auteurs like Orson Welles spurred Hitchcock to push his boundaries further. Perhaps as his first Hollywood film, the enhanced production value provided him with greater tools and freedom for expression. Additionally, having the talented Laurence Olivier as the lead (for the first and last time) contributed to the film's enduring appeal. Joan Fontaine and Judith Anderson also shine in this gothic and haunting masterpiece.

      4 – Rear Window

      Hitchcock excelled at transforming simple concepts into unforgettable expressions. Rear Window is a brilliant chamber piece that confines its protagonist (Jimmy Stewart) with a broken leg, forcing him to observe his neighbors from his apartment. Believing he has witnessed a murder, he persuades his nurse (Thelma Ritter) and fashionable friend (Grace Kelly) to help him gather proof.

      The film has been remade and reinterpreted (including Disturbia), but none have