Rear Window

Rear Window

Year: 1954

Runtime: 112 min

Language: English

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

MysteryThriller

In this gripping thriller, a quadriplegic photographer's voyeuristic hobby turns deadly when he witnesses a brutal murder through his window. As he tries to expose the truth, he realizes that the killer has discovered his secret and will stop at nothing to silence him.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Rear Window (1954)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Rear Window (1954). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Summer of the 1950s

The film is set during a sweltering summer in the 1950s, a period characterized by a booming post-war economy and stark social divisions. The heat adds to the tension and claustrophobia of the storyline as characters become embroiled in a web of suspicion and intrigue. It reflects a time of changing values and the emergence of modern anxieties.

Location

New York

The movie takes place in a bustling New York City courtyard, where multiple lives intersect in a close community. The setting features various apartments, providing a glimpse into the diverse lives and routines of its residents. Known for its vibrant culture and fast-paced lifestyle, New York serves as a backdrop for the suspenseful narrative.

🏙️ City 🏢 Apartment

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:33

Main Characters – Rear Window (1954)
Meet the key characters of Rear Window (1954), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

L.B. 'Jeff' Jeffries (James Stewart)

Jeff is a successful photographer recovering from a broken leg, leaving him with time to observe his neighbors. Initially complacent, his curiosity turns into paranoia as he suspects foul play across the courtyard. His character embodies both vulnerability and determination as he navigates his limitations while seeking the truth.

📸 Photographer 🚪 Observer 🔎 Curious

Lisa Carol Fremont (Grace Kelly)

Lisa is Jeff's beautiful and rich girlfriend who yearns for commitment but grapples with Jeff's fears of settling down. Her character evolves from a glamorous socialite to a courageous heroine willing to put herself in danger for the sake of love and justice. She demonstrates strength and resourcefulness, challenging traditional gender roles.

👗 Socialite 💘 Supportive 🦸‍♀️ Courageous

Stella (Thelma Ritter)

Stella serves as Jeff's pragmatic nurse and friend, offering wise insights into his situation. Her grounded perspective contrasts with Jeff’s obsessive tendencies, showcasing a blend of humor and skepticism. She represents the voice of reason while also embodying the curious nature of human instincts.

👩‍⚕️ Nurse 🗣️ Wise 😄 Humorous

Lars Thorwald (Raymond Burr)

Thorwald is portrayed as the complex antagonist whose actions trigger Jeff's suspicions. Initially presented as merely a salesman, his character gradually reveals a sinister potential, embodying themes of crime and guilt. His interactions with Jeff create a tension-filled narrative exploring the darker aspects of humanity.

👨‍💼 Salesman 🚷 Mysterious ⚖️ Guilt

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:33

Major Themes – Rear Window (1954)
Explore the central themes of Rear Window (1954), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔍 Surveillance

The theme of surveillance is central as Jeffries becomes increasingly obsessed with observing his neighbors. This act of watching raises questions about privacy and the morality of spying on others. It highlights how seemingly innocent curiosity can spiral into dangerous obsession.

💔 Love and Relationships

The tension between Jeffries and Lisa showcases the complexities of love and commitment. Their differing lifestyles create a rift in their relationship, prompting discussions about the sacrifices required for love and companionship. Ultimately, the trials they face help them redefine their bond.

🚨 Crime and Guilt

The notion of crime looms large as Jeffries suspects a murder next door. This theme explores the darkness that can lie beneath normalcy and the psychological impact of suspicion and guilt. Through the investigation, the film questions the reliability of perception and judgment.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:33

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