Movie spotlight
Monsieur Truffaut Meets Mr. Hitchcock
When Francois Truffaut approached Alfred Hitchcock in 1962 with the idea of having a long conversation with him about his work and publishing this in book form, he didn't imagine that more than four years would pass before Le Cinéma selon Hitchcock finally appeared in 1966. Not only in France but all over the world, Truffaut's Hitchcock interview developed over the years into a standard bible of film literature. In 1983, three years after Hitchcock's death, Truffaut decided to expand his by now legendary book to include a concluding chapter and have it published as the "Edition définitive". This film describes the genesis of the "Hitchbook" and throws light on the strange friendship between two completely different men. The centrepieces are the extracts from the original sound recordings of the interview with the voices of Alfred Hitchcock, Francois Truffaut, and Helen Scott – recordings which have never been heard in public before.
Insights
Plot Summary
This short documentary explores the seminal 1962 interview between French New Wave director François Truffaut and the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. It delves into their discussions about filmmaking, suspense, and Hitchcock's iconic body of work. The film showcases key moments and insights from their historic conversation, offering a glimpse into the minds of two master storytellers.
Critical Reception
As a short documentary focused on archival footage and interviews, critical reception often centers on its value as a historical artifact and its insights into filmmaking. It's generally regarded as a valuable piece for cinephiles interested in the intersection of these two influential directors.
What Reviewers Say
Provides fascinating insight into the dialogue between two cinematic giants.
A must-watch for fans of Alfred Hitchcock and François Truffaut.
Offers a rare glimpse into the creative process and influences discussed by the filmmakers.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the documentary's intellectual value and its success in capturing the essence of the Truffaut-Hitchcock interviews. Viewers appreciate the historical significance and the opportunity to learn directly from the directors about their craft.
Fun Fact
The original interview between François Truffaut and Alfred Hitchcock, which forms the basis of this documentary, was conducted over three days in 1962 and resulted in the book 'Hitchcock/Truffaut'.
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