Today’s quick review: North by Northwest. Roger Thornhill (Cary Grant), a New York advertising executive, gets tangled up in a dangeous situation when the goons of the shady Mr. Vandamm (James Mason) mistake him for George Caplan, a troublesome spy. To save his skin, Roger must locate the real Mr. Caplan, all while staying one step ahead of both Vandamm’s men and the police. His only ally is Eve Kendall (Eva Marie Saint), a stranger he meets on the train.
North by Northwest is a suspense thriller from director Alfred Hitchcock. North by Northwest is one of the most polished movies of its genre, with an intelligent, coherent plot and masterful direction. The film captures the helplessness of being thrust into an unfair, unknowable situation, boxing in Roger with just a few expert strokes. Eventually it evens out into more of a spy thriller, but it never loses its forward momentum or sense of danger.
North by Northwest’s writing and direction are supported by a strong cast. Cary Grant stars as Roger Thornhill, an innocent man driven to desperate measures to evade his pursuers and prove his innocence. Eva Marie Saint plays opposite him as Eve Kendall, a brave, mysterious woman who helps him out of a tight spot. The two have an enjoyable chemistry, a healthy amount of banter, and a complicated relationship that ties directly into the plot.
Watch North by Northwest if you are in the mood for a well-balanced thriller with a potent yet tightly reined air of paranoia. Fans of classic cinema will appreciate North by Northwest for its excellent craftsmanship, its tantalizing plot, and its iconic moments. Skip it if you are looking for a lighter thriller or genuine horror. For a Cary Grant thriller with a touch of romantic comedy, check out Charade.
8.4 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for a very strong plot and polished execution.