Hitchology: A Film-by-Film Guide to the Style and Themes of Alfred Hitchcock

Reviewing Alfred Hitchcock’s 53 films, Alcock’s pithy and keen-eyed book spans from 1926’s The Pleasure Garden (made when Hitchcock was 26) to his 1976 swan song Family Plot. Film journalist Alcock points out a comforting symmetry: Hitchcock’s first film begins with a scene on a staircase, and his last movie ends on one. The author is an enjoyable and knowledgeable guide through Hitchcock’s filmography. Arranged chronologically, each film gets its own chapter, containing a succinct plot description, background on the production, critical assessment, and discussion of Hitchcock’s themes, style, and notable directorial ingenuities. Chapters that divulge major twists and surprises have a handy “spoiler warning” icon to warn readers who have yet to see the film. After the chapter on Psycho, there’s a bonus chapter reviewing Psychos II, III, and IV, the TV series Bates Motel, and Gus Van Sant’s “fascinatingly pointless” 1998 remake. There are also bonus chapters on Hitchcock cameos, repeated collaborations with various writers and actors, his two wartime shorts, and an appreciation of his wife and collaborator Alma Reville. The book also devotes one chapter to 20 episodes of TV that Hitchcock directed, including 18 episodes of his anthology show Alfred Hitchcock Presents.