09-12-2024 - on This Moment in Film History

On September 12, 1958, an iconic film premiered at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, California: "Vertigo," directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. This psychological thriller, starring James Stewart and Kim Novak, would go on to become a classic in cinema history and is now widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.

The film follows John "Scottie" Ferguson (Stewart), a former police detective who suffers from acrophobia (fear of heights) and vertigo after a traumatic incident. He is hired by an old friend to follow his wife, Madeleine (Novak), who has been behaving strangely. As Scottie becomes obsessed with Madeleine, he is drawn into a complex web of deceit, mystery, and murder.

"Vertigo" is famous for its groundbreaking cinematography and innovative use of camera techniques to convey Scottie's psychological state and the film's themes of obsession and identity. The "dolly zoom" effect, where the camera simultaneously zooms in and tracks backward (or vice versa), was pioneered in this film and is often referred to as the "Vertigo effect."

The film's haunting score, composed by Bernard Herrmann, perfectly complements the visuals and adds to the overall sense of unease and suspense. The film's use of color, particularly green and red, is also noteworthy and has been extensively analyzed by film scholars.

Upon its initial release, "Vertigo" received mixed reviews and was not a major box office success. However, over time, it has been reappraised and is now considered a masterpiece of cinema. In 2012, it even displaced "Citizen Kane" as the greatest film of all time in the prestigious Sight & Sound critics' poll.

The legacy of "Vertigo" can be seen in countless films, from its influence on neo-noir and psychological thrillers to its homages and references in popular culture. Its premiere on September 12, 1958, marked the beginning of a cinematic journey that continues to captivate and inspire audiences and filmmakers alike.