Vertigo

On a dark San Francisco night, a thief climbs to the rooftop, pursued by detective John 'Scottie' Ferguson and a police officer. In a moment of terror, Scottie slips and watches helplessly as the police officer falls to his death, marking the beginning of Scottie's debilitating fear of heights.

Months later, Scottie is recovering from his traumatic experience and has retired from the police force due to his acrophobia. He is urged by Marjorie 'Midge' Wood, a former engagement, to take a vacation and overcome his fears.

Scottie meets with Gavin Elster, who requests Scottie to follow his wife, Madeleine. Gavin expresses his concern that she has been acting strangely and may be possessed by something supernatural, piquing Scottie's interest despite his initial skepticism.

At Ernie's Restaurant, Scottie first sees Madeleine Elster, dressed elegantly, and is instantly captivated by her beauty. His fascination grows as he watches her interact with Gavin, marking the beginning of his obsession.

The next day, Scottie follows Madeleine through San Francisco as she visits several places, including a flower shop and a cemetery. He discovers the grave of Carlotta Valdes, which sets the stage for the mystery surrounding Madeleine's identity.

Scottie observes Madeleine at the Palace of the Legions of Honor, where she stares at a portrait titled 'Portrait of Carlotta.' He becomes increasingly aware of the eerie similarities between Madeleine and Carlotta, deepening his intrigue.

Following Madeleine to Fort Point, Scottie watches in horror as she suddenly jumps into the bay. He dives in after her, successfully saving her life, which only deepens his feelings for her but also escalates her mysterious behavior.

Scottie and Madeleine visit a local historian who reveals the tragic story of Carlotta Valdes. This revelation connects Madeleine and Carlotta, revealing a haunting legacy that shadows Scottie's growing obsession.

Madeleine recalls dreams of a tower and a village while they visit a mission. Scottie becomes intrigued and follows her there, but as Madeleine ascends the bell tower, he is paralyzed by his vertigo, unable to save her.

In a tragic climax, Scottie watches helplessly as Madeleine falls from the top of the bell tower. The moment is etched in his memory, symbolizing his failure to protect her and subsequently plunging him into despair.

During a court hearing regarding Madeleine's death, Scottie faces cruel judgment as he is blamed for his inability to save her. The ruling declares her death a suicide, leaving Scottie grappling with guilt and loss.

Struggling with his mental state, Scottie is hospitalized in a psychiatric ward. Midge cares for him, trying to bring comfort amidst his silence and trauma, as doctors predict a long recovery due to his emotional turmoil.

After his release, Scottie encounters Judy, who bears a striking resemblance to Madeleine. He is drawn to her, unknowingly beginning a complicated relationship where he tries to re-create his lost love.

Obsessed with the memory of Madeleine, Scottie persuades Judy to undergo a complete makeover to look like her. This transformation deepens the complexity of their relationship as Judy struggles with her identity amidst Scottie's obsession.

Scottie takes Judy back to the mission, forcing her to relive Madeleine's last moments. When Judy realizes Scottie's intent, she accidentally falls to her death, leaving Scottie shattered and alone, haunted by his past.