what techniques did alfred hitchcock use for shadow of a doubt to create suspense

Intertwined with this mystery is also the rather complex story of Jeff and Lisa’s relationship. Their contributions ultimately allow the mystery to be solved. After breaking his leg after a racing accident, Jeff begins to spy on his neighbours, one of whom he suspects of having committed a murder.ĭespite some initial misgivings, his insurance nurse Stella (Thelma Ritter) and lover Lisa (Grace Kelly) also come to share his suspicions and participate in his spying.

‘Jeff’ Jefferies is portrayed by James Stewart, who was known at the time for portraying cowboys in various Western films as well as starring in an earlier Hitchcock film Rope. Whilst he is indeed known for his hair-curling thrillers, Rear Window is a slightly subtler film which focuses not on a murderer at large, but rather a crippled photographer who never even leaves his apartment. When most people think of Hitchcock, it’s the screeching violins from Psycho that first come to mind.

For a detailed guide on Text Response, check out our Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response. Rear Window is usually studied in the Australian curriculum under Area of Study 1 - Text Response.

What techniques did alfred hitchcock use for shadow of a doubt to create suspense