Thoughts on Spellbound (1945)

So I just saw Spellbound.

And it was pretty great.

It definitely held my attention better than Rebecca, but I suppose that is because I was more invested in the plot this time. It's really a fascinating movie in a lot of different ways.

I liked the characters and their interactions; they all seemed unique and genuine, which was helped by the good performances. The acting was very good as usual. The pacing of events was also pretty good; it seemed more consistent than other Hitchcock films I've been seeing lately. It wasn't too fast or too slow; it was at a steady pace and that's what matters.

I particularly enjoyed the visuals. Not only was Hitchcock good with the camera and lighting as he has been before, but there was this very interesting dream sequence done by Salvador Dali. The visuals of that, especially with curtains with eyes painted on, were suitably creepy and unsettling while still looking good.

The music is interesting too. While Hitchcock didn't really like it, I thought it was very well done, especially since it pioneered the use of the theremin in film scores, which is a weird little electronic thing that makes interesting and unique sounds while fitting with an orchestra.

I don't really have a lot else to say about this film other than I liked the plot, mystery, and film noir style to it. It had a good, consistent tone to it and I appreciate that.

I wouldn't call this my favorite Hitchcock movie so far but I do think it's really good, and I can very much appreciate it. I'm not finalized on any kind of score, but I'd give this, at the least, an eight out of ten.

PS: Spellbound is technically next week's (the 21st) film, but I watched it early because a partner and I are going to present on it. I will be seeing something else tomorrow and will thus be posting my thoughts on that, but not on the 21st.