Hitchcock’s classic tale of obsession and doubles consistently tops the lists of best films of all time, and it’s clear why, especially if you immerse yourself in it at the State Theatre. Jimmy Stewart’s Scottie, a vertigo-afflicted cop on leave, turns private detective when he’s hired to follow Kim Novak’s Madeleine, a dazed and suicidal housewife who seems to think she’s the reincarnation of a dead woman. The film transcends its plot and becomes a sort of confessional on Hitchcock’s part re: his famously controlling relationship with platinum blond actresses. Then it transcends again into a universal comment on the male gaze, objectification, and all that good film school stuff. Most importantly, though, this does not feel like homework; it runs the gamut of pure cinematic delight. – Lina Fisher
