207. Rope

Rope
1948
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock

I knew right when I put this movie in that I would love it.  Not only is it directed by Alfred Hitchcock, aka the master of suspense, but the premise itself is fascinating.  Two gay men kill a man and then (naturally) throw a dinner party.  They do this to kind of prove how awesome they are at murder.   They even invite Jimmy Stewart, who they believe will appreciate the "art" of their crime.

All right, there are so many great things about this film that it is hard for me to organize my thoughts enough to make them coherent.  I will try my best.

First of all, Farley Granger and John Dall have some of the best chemistry I have ever seen in a movie.  The mere fact that the three main characters were all gay is kind of astounding in the late forties (it is never said outright but you would have to be blind not to see it).  The acting is just amazing.  Farley Granger is perfect as the slightly weak and twitchy Philip while John Dall counteracts him perfectly with chilling confidence.  Honestly, even though Jimmy Stewart is the big name, I felt like the two other characters blew him away.

Alfred Hitchcock is also incredibly ballsy so he shot this film in color (which meant that the cameras were almost impossible to maneuver and as big as tanks).  The whole movie is shot in practically one room but I never felt antsy or bored.

This movie is absolutely incredible and you have to watch it.  Right now.  I mean it.  Do it!

RATING: *****

Interesting Facts:

Loosely based on a real murder committed by University students.

Said to be shot in real time.

HITCHCOCK RADAR: Profile is shown approximately 55 minutes into the film.

Banned in several countries because of the homosexual undertones.

Hitchcock's first color film.