Starring: Laurence Olivier, Joan Fontaine, Judith Anderson, George Sanders, Nigel Bruce
Director: Alfred Hitchcock (UK)
Genre: Romance, Mystery
Availability: YouTube
Watch Quality A-
While this version is not quite HD quality, the sound and picture are very clear. The YouTube version preserves the big-screen atmosphere of the original.
Plot Summary
A naive working-class girl is swept off her feet by an aristocrat whose previous wife died under mysterious circumstances. As she adjusts to her new life, she grapples with the dark intentions of everyone around her.
Star Power A-
Joan Fontaine is charmingly, disarmingly awkward and overcome by being thrust into adulthood, marriage, wealth, and status all at once. Laurence Olivier plays his role well, if not memorably. The supporting cast shines as they reveal the cruel, jaded world of the nobility.
Chill Factor D+
Although the characters are motivated by love, Hitchcock's deliberate slowly building pressure and the darkness of death that flutters ever-present make for a mood that does not inspire sparks with your date.
Mental Health Check C-
The film is meant to be disturbing and it does not fail. A kind of lonesome, domestic horror permeates the entire elegant set. Though dead, Rebecca is always present.
Overall Grade A
Hitchcock's suspense is brilliantly executed. The characters are pitiable or broken, but rarely likable until near the end. The twists will keep you guessing and the drama will keep your pulse pounding.
