Shadow of a Doubt

Shadow of a Doubt

Year: 1943

Runtime: 1 h 48 m

Language: English

Director: Alfred Hitchcock

Film-NoirThriller

When her charming Uncle Charlie arrives for a visit, young Charlotte finds herself captivated by his charisma. But as unsettling details about his past surface, she begins to suspect there's more to him than meets the eye. Charlotte must confront the chilling possibility that the man she admires might be harboring a dark secret.

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Timeline & Setting – Shadow of a Doubt (1943)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Shadow of a Doubt (1943). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 1900s

The early 1900s was a time of significant social change and technological advancement in the United States. During this period, small towns like Santa Rosa began to develop their identities, often juxtaposed with events that hinted at deeper societal issues, including crime and personal conflict.

Location

Santa Rosa, California

Santa Rosa is a picturesque town known for its charming two-story homes and a close-knit community. It represents an idyllic American setting in the early 20th century, where events unfold that reveal the darker sides of familial relationships and hidden secrets.

🏡 Town 🌳 Suburb

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

Main Characters – Shadow of a Doubt (1943)
Meet the key characters of Shadow of a Doubt (1943), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Charlotte 'Charlie' Newton (Teresa Wright)

Charlotte, affectionately known as Charlie, is a curious and imaginative teenager who yearns for excitement beyond her mundane small-town life. Her close bond with her Uncle Charlie becomes complicated as she starts to suspect his dark side, showcasing her bravery and determination as she confronts the truth.

👧 Teen 🔍 Investigator 💓 Innocent

Uncle Charlie (Joseph Cotten)

Uncle Charlie is charismatic yet menacing, disguising his darker intentions behind a charming facade. His complex relationship with his niece serves as the heart of the film, as he embodies the duality of a loving family member and a potential murderer, evoking both affection and fear.

👨‍🎤 Charismatic 😈 Villain 🕵️‍♂️ Deceptive

Joseph 'Joe' Newton (Henry Travers)

Joe Newton is the well-meaning father who represents traditional family values and stability. His obliviousness to the unfolding danger around him highlights the tragic naivety present in families hiding dark secrets, showcasing the gravity of familial ignorance.

👨 Father 💼 Businessman 👨‍👩‍👧 Family Man

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

Major Themes – Shadow of a Doubt (1943)
Explore the central themes of Shadow of a Doubt (1943), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕵️‍♀️ Suspicion

The theme of suspicion permeates the film as young Charlie grows increasingly doubtful of her uncle's true nature. The tension escalates as she unearths ominous clues that make her question the safety of her family, illustrating how trust can be shattered by hidden truths.

💔 Familial Betrayal

Familial betrayal is central to the narrative as the bond between young Charlie and her uncle crumbles under the weight of dark secrets. The film explores the emotional turmoil that arises when loved ones are not who they seem, leading to tragic consequences.

💰 Greed

Greed is a key driving force behind Uncle Charlie's actions, as he schemes and manipulates those around him for financial gain. It highlights how the quest for wealth can corrupt moral values and lead to devastating actions against those who trust you.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

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