The 39 Steps

I have to utterly reject the premise of a man and woman handcuffed together for days on end. Think about it....

The 39 Steps is an early, mystery thriller from Alfred Hitchcock. It was interesting to see a 1930's mystery without the distractions of fancy costumes, set designs and explosions. This film is a just a good story, with convincing characters who find themselves in interesting predicaments. Recommended.

A classic of suspense.

Um...I can't stop watching this film - help me God - lol!

As a Hitchcock fan, it is neat to see the beginnings of so many tropes that would soon become staples in Hitchcock's later filmography. Despite not yet being perfected, the skills are still apparent. Robert Donat plays Hannay, an unaware bystander who gets thrust into the complex world of espionage and conspiracy. The police are after him for murder, and mysterious figures want to murder him. Hitchcock's unique style of suspense and humor are on display in this adventure. Every little character that enters the story breathes new life into the movie. For a film from the 30's, the pacing is very modern. There are some rough transitions where characters manage to escape situations too easily. Even early on, it is clear Hitchcock has the mentality of: "Cops are dull". There are some plot points where you could argue that the police should be able to take care of things. But in order for the movie to happen, our characters have to take a few extra steps.

I have just three films in my collection that I’d rate the highest score: 12 Angry Men, The Terminator, and The 39 Steps. The 39 Steps is Hitchcock at his finest, filled with suspense, wit, and masterful storytelling. Among its many standout moments, the train restaurant scene is a perfect example of Hitchcock’s genius. It’s a quintessentially British blend of tension and dry humor. As the police close in on Richard Hannay, weaving through the tight confines of the dining car, a waiter remains utterly unflappable. Balancing a heavily laden tray, he glides through the chaos with immaculate poise. His calm, deliberate manner, unwavering in the face of disorder, exemplifies a uniquely British dedication to decorum. Even amidst the urgency of a manhunt, service continues without so much as a wobble or spill.

Un entonces incipiente Alfred Hitchcock no con uno, sino dos temas de los que serían de cabecera: espías, y un hombre acusado erróneamente de un crimen. Del género de intriga, es de aquellas películas de las que es impensable pedir más.

Hitchcock's masterpiece of his English era. Probably the most genuine fun and laughs you can get out of a movie from this era.

I cannot believe I’ve never seen this movie! As well within the realm of “charade, Maltese falcon, The man who knew too much” Such excellent storytelling Of a man caught in a situation Which seems out of control, yet he continues on

classic situational humor. was surprised how little of the movie involves the handcuffs, considering that’s all i had heard about this movie prior. definitely more about the journey than the destination. also, love the visual depth created through the constant interplay of fore-, middle-, and backgrounds.