6 Comments

This gem should have been set off separately -- as the piece's opening epigram:

"Hedren is Hitchcock’s most minimalist actress, one who conveyed emotions by her rate of blinking."

Stellar close-read.

Mirrors in many ways Camille Paglia's fabulous essay on the film from ten years back. There's a rumor that you were gifted a copy of that book but cavalierly tossed aside. How sad that is.

Expand full comment

Hedren’s character was created in Hitchcock’s Champagne with Betty Balfour

Expand full comment

Yes, a fascinating thing Hitchcock's women are. I do think Tippi wins the award. Always glad we didn't see her in that nightgown Pleshette let her borrow and she stayed in the suit. I love the scene is the Pet store and a glimpse of SF, just as I love watching Leigh in Psycho before she takes the shower. Great writing.

Expand full comment
author

Laughing about the nightgown bought in the Bodega Bay convenience store! Yes, that glimpse of San Francisco as 'Tippi' crosses the street with Union Square behind her! So evocative.

Expand full comment

I was. Also, maybe you mentioned ‘Tippi’ in the boat. Love watching her . Terrific camera.

Expand full comment

Nice article John, thank you!

Expand full comment