
Movie spotlight
È caduta una donna
In Milan, an unwed mother, forced to flee from her town because of the scandal, meets a doctor who falls in love with her and marries her. But the couple's relationship breaks down almost immediately: the husband is unable to leave behind the woman's past and can not stand a son not his. So Dina, in an attempt to readjust the rapport, entrusts the child to the care of the mother of her seducer (meanwhile deceased). But the sacrifice is beyond her strength, and she's soon taken by the irresistible desire to get her child back: in damp and foggy night, on her way to the station...
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman, shortly after marrying a wealthy widower, begins to suspect that his first wife, who supposedly died tragically, might still be alive. As her suspicions grow, she uncovers dark secrets about her husband's past and finds herself trapped in a web of deceit and psychological manipulation.
Critical Reception
Generally well-received by critics and audiences alike for its suspenseful atmosphere, strong performances, and Hitchcock's masterful direction. It is often cited as one of Hitchcock's finest psychological thrillers.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its chilling suspense and unsettling psychological tension.
Joan Fontaine's performance as the increasingly paranoid wife is a standout.
Hitchcock's direction expertly builds an atmosphere of dread and foreboding.
Google audience: Audiences consistently praise the film's suspenseful plot, memorable characters, and the impeccable direction by Alfred Hitchcock. The acting, particularly by Joan Fontaine, is frequently highlighted as a major strength.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for 8 Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Laurence Olivier), and Best Actress (Joan Fontaine), winning for Best Director and Best Actress.
Fun Fact
The iconic "Don't look down" scene was filmed using a forced-perspective trick, making the staircase appear much deeper than it actually was.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources