In 1936, British writer, Ethel Lina White published a book titled, “The Wheel Spins.” It’s about an English woman named, Iris who stays at a hotel and becomes friends with an elderly woman named, Ms. Froy. The next day, the two board a train. Suddenly, Iris discovers Ms. Froy’s missing. She tracks down the missing person’s whereabouts. Two Years Later, Alfred Hitchcock directed a film adaptation known as “The Lady Vanishes.”
Released in 1938, (same year Superman made his comic book debut) The Lady Vanishes earned good reviews from critics and movie goers alike. Plus, it made enough revenue at the box office. Thanks to the film’s success, Hitchcock made it big transitioning to Hollywood becoming one of the most recognized filmmakers in cinema history. The Lady Vanishes is part of The Criterion Collection as spine number 3.
Although I never read the book, first time I heard about The Lady Vanishes, was a video on YouTube with Christopher Nolan recommending his picks on Turner Classic Movies. He’s a fan of the Master of Suspense. Mr. Nolan’s finally won two Oscars for “Best Director” and “Best Picture” for Oppenheimer.” He’s got more than Hitchcock. A darn shame the latter never got one throughout his entire career. As a Nolanite, (fan name for Christopher Nolan) I watched The Lady Vanishes. It was ok.
This review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to see one of Hitchcock’s early films.
Right & Wrong Aspects
Right: The Cast all did a good job for their respective performances.
Alfred Hitchcock did a solid job directing. He makes a cameo near the end. If you have keen eye, he walks with a few extras wearing a black coat smoking a cigarette.
Fun Fact 1: This won’t be the last time Hitchcock made a film set on a train. “Stranger on a Train.”
Fun Fact 2: Orson Welles claims he saw The Lady Vanishes 11 times. He went on to make his best work, “Citizen Kane.”
Cinematography didn’t suffer from technical issues.
Wrong: The First Act takes a long time. You’ll have to wait 28 minutes in until the main conflict starts. It’s just a few characters will never get to see for the rest of the film. If you’re gonna build up on Act One, you have to introduce the focal characters properly. Don’t rely on other characters will never get to see.
One character says, “Queer sort of bird.” Back then, it used to mean strange. Nowadays, it’s a derogatory term people use like Alex Jones. He’s totally insane.
An early romance between Iris & Gilbert happened. If this were real life, it would take two weeks or more for two people to get to know each other before a relationship is fully established. Ugh! I hate it when two people immediately become a couple after less than two weeks.
The Final Verdict: B-
I can’t believe I’m saying this, The Lady Vanishes is average. Not a masterpiece like “Psycho.” Just plain average. If you’re curious to see one of Hitchcock’s early works, buy it from Criterion Collection on Blu-Ray. Which Hitchcock film should I review next? Please leave a comment and I’ll reply back.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 