11 January 2013

To Catch a Thief (1955)


Alfred Hitchcock presents a romantic thriller, set against a Mediterranean backdrop of the French Riviera which is pierced by sinister tones.

A master thief known as 'The Cat' (Cary Grant) is forced to defend his innocence when a series of jewel thefts that closely resemble his style throw him back into the spotlight.  With the plan of ensnaring the thief, he draws a rich American and her daughter (Grace Kelly) into his elaborate ruses.

Grace Kelly stars as the controlling yet charming Frances Stevens.  Her costumes, by Edith Head, are gorgeous; from her ice blue chiffon gown to her elegant white dress.  Her character is the personification of class and sophistication: leading a high-speed car chase in a stunning sapphire blue Sunbeam Alpine, white driving gloves and heels.  Intuitive and confident, Stevens is a strong leading lady who challenges fashion and indulges in her affluence.  To Catch a Thief also relishes in Hitchcock's effective use of light and shadow, with an iconic firework scene that features beautiful cinematography.  Concluding in a lavish costume party of Marie Antoinette-esque decadence, the film is underlined by deception, suspense and mystery.

A glamorous and intriguing thriller from Alfred Hitchcock.

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