Leon Couturier

A mysterious man, known only as 'The Lodger,' takes up residence in a London boarding house during a period of intense fear caused by a serial killer known as 'Thetolyl Killer.' The landlady, Mrs. Barrows, becomes increasingly suspicious of her new tenant due to his strange habits and late-night wanderings. As the investigation into the murders intensifies, the landlady's suspicions grow, leading to a tense and suspenseful climax.

While not a critical darling in its initial release, 'The Lodger' is now widely regarded as a foundational work in Alfred Hitchcock's career and a significant early example of the suspense thriller genre. Its innovative camera work and thematic exploration of paranoia and suspicion laid the groundwork for his later masterpieces.

• Hitchcock's early mastery of suspense is evident.

• The film effectively builds atmosphere and tension.

• A notable precursor to the psychological thrillers that would define the director's career.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this silent film is not readily available.

Alfred Hitchcock makes his first on-screen cameo in this film, appearing as a telephone lineman in a crowd scene.