Classics Review: North by Northwest

During interviews, Alfred Hitchcock told journalists he conceived an idea on Cary Grant hiding inside Abe Lincoln’s nose. Once he found the right person to write the script brainstorming elements such as a cropduster scene, an attractive blonde woman, the main character trying to clear his name, bad guys and the hero literally climbing down Mount Rushmore. What do you get? a spy thriller known as “North by Northwest.”

Released in 1959, (same year Green Lantern/Hal Jordan made his comic book debut) it received praise from critics and movie goers alike. It was also a commercial hit. North by Northwest was nominated for three Academy Awards including “Best Director.” Unfortunately, Hitchcock never won an Oscar throughout his entire career. North by Northwest inspired spy films and TV shows including James Bond & “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.”

Anyway, I have one legitimate reason why I wanna review one of Alfred Hitchcock’s films. Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated “The Odyssey” will be released on July 17, 2026. Which is my birth month, Mr. Nolan’s a fan of Hitchcock’s work. As I wait patiently for his aforementioned fantasy adventure epic, I’m watching and reviewing some of his favorite films.

This review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving newcomers a chance to see this classic spy thriller.

Smart & Dull Qualities

Smart: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason & Martin Landau all did a decent job for their respective performances.

Alfred Hitchcock did a good job directing. He also produced the film. Hitchcock himself makes a cameo appearance trying to get into a bus, but the door slammed right in front of his face.

Ernest Lehman (The King and I, The Sound of Music) wrote the script. He mostly did a good job.

Bernard Hermann (Citizen Kane, Vertigo, Psycho) orchestrated the soundtrack.

Cinematography’s shot in stable condition.

Pacing felt stable. Didn’t feel like a drab.

We learn some things about Cary’s character, Roger.

One person mentioned Charles Addams. The creator of “The Addams Family.”

Fun Facts

North by Northwest was spoofed on an episode of Family Guy, “North by North Quahog.” It was also parodied on an episode of “Courage the Cowardly Dog,” “Contaminationst.” When I was a kid, I wasn’t aware both shows poked fun at the film. Now that I’m older, it’s funny to look back at them.
One of my favorite directors, James “JG” Gunn payed homage to the cropduster scene with Gamora evading Nebula piloting a spaceship in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.”
In 1995, the film was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry.
Prior to its release, Hitchcock appeared in a trailer promoting the film talking about the premise. Not every filmmaker appears in a trailer to draw audiences to their seats.
Angry Video Game Nerd/James Rolfe ranked North by Northwest as his second favorite Hitchcock film. He talked about his “Top Ten Hitchcock Films.” If you’re curious to see his picks, check it out on YouTube.

Random Thought: I’m giving North by Northwest credit for influencing the spy genre. Especially MGM adapting the James Bond book series into a successful franchise. I give credit where credit is due.

Dull: The film’s dated. For instance, a Cold War story is on the front page. “Nixon Promises West Will Remain in Berlin.” 30 Year Later, the Berlin Wall’s demolished.

The romance between Roger & Eve felt one sided. They have an early relationship. I’m willing to accept James Bond & Iron Man/Tony Stark known for hooking up with beautiful women. They both have high charisma like a custom made “Fallout” character. Roger however, doesn’t have any of that charisma. I don’t like an early romance between two people who lack charisma.

James Mason’s character, Phillip Vandamn wasn’t interesting. He’s somewhat forgettable. Not the late actor’s fault. His villain role wasn’t memorable.

The Final Verdict: B-

I can’t believe I’m saying this, Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest is painfully average. I wanted to give it a higher grade, but some elements damage the film. It may not be a masterpiece like Psycho, but some parts are good. Not saying North by Northwest is bad. Just plain average. Despite some blemishes, it’s worth your spare time. Which Alfred Hitchcock film should I review next? Please leave a comment.