Alfred Hitchcock, the master of suspense, has given us some of the most iconic films in cinema history. From “Psycho” to “Rear Window,” his work continues to influence and inspire filmmakers. However, one of his late-career masterpieces, “Frenzy,” is conspicuously missing from IndieWire's top 25 Hitchcock films. This oversight needs addressing, as “Frenzy” is a chilling, atmospheric thriller that stands among his very best.
“Frenzy,” released on June 21, 1972, marked Hitchcock's return to his native London after years in Hollywood. The film, based on Arthur La Bern's novel “Goodbye Piccadilly, Farewell Leicester Square,” was adapted by Anthony Shaffer, who infused the script with macabre humor and an unsettling edge. It tells the story of Richard Blaney, played by Jon Finch, who is wrongfully accused of being the “Necktie Murderer” stalking the streets of Covent Garden. Barry Foster delivers a chilling performance as the real killer, Bob Rusk, whose quiet menace pervades every scene.
What sets “Frenzy” apart from many of Hitchcock's other works is its unabashed embrace of explicit violence. This was Hitchcock's first R-rated film, a significant departure from his previous work. The infamous rape and strangulation scene is both brutal and harrowing, pushing the boundaries of what audiences had come to expect from the director. Yet, it's the subsequent scene where the camera glides away from the closed apartment door, leaving the horrors within to the imagination, that truly showcases Hitchcock's genius.
The film's atmosphere is another standout element. Hitchcock transforms London into a living, breathing character, with the bustling streets of Covent Garden and the claustrophobic interiors of pubs and apartments creating a pervasive sense of unease. The city's vibrancy contrasts starkly with the dark, violent undercurrents running through the narrative.
Despite its initial mixed reception, “Frenzy” has garnered acclaim over the years, with many critics now recognizing it as Hitchcock's last great film. It's a gripping thriller that delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of innocence, guilt, and societal decay.
For those who have yet to experience “Frenzy,” now is the perfect time. The film is receiving a much-needed 4K restoration, with screenings at New York City's Film Forum from August 23 to August 29. This restoration promises to bring out the vivid details and atmospheric nuances that make “Frenzy” such a compelling watch.
In conclusion, “Frenzy” is a Hitchcock classic that deserves its place among his top films. Its absence from IndieWire's list is a disservice to both the film and to Hitchcock's legacy. This is a film that every cinephile should see, a masterful blend of suspense, horror, and dark humor that only Hitchcock could deliver.
