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Movie Description
A string of classic suspense films produced in England had earned Alfred Hitchcock a reputation in the United States, and his first American production, REBECCA, cemented his fame. Based on the novel by Daphne du Maurier, REBECCA was conceived to rival producer David O. Selznick's previous epic, GONE WITH THE WIND. This psychological thriller, however, derives its grandeur from Hitchcock's careful cultivation of the title character's haunting legacy. Joan Fontaine takes the starring role and narrates the story of her life as the second Madam de Winter. Fontaine, young and innocent, meets the worldly and sophisticated Maxim de Winter (Laurence Olivier) while vacationing on the Riviera. After a whirlwind romance and marriage, the two return to his opulent English estate, Maderley, where Fontaine begins to realize she is not entirely welcome in her new role. Chief among her detractors is housekeeper Mrs. Danvers (Judith Anderson), who points out her every failing in relation to the previous mistress of the house, Rebecca. Fontaine is nearly driven to suicide by her inability to understand the mysterious legacy of the first wife. However, when a ship washes ashore, the mystery begins to unravel, setting the stage for the memorable and fiery climax.
Synopsis
REBECCA is Alfred Hitchcock's gothic romance about an innocent and sweet young woman who marries a wealthy gentleman and soon begins to fear that she cannot erase the memories of his first wife, Rebecca. Goaded on by a malevolent housekeeper, the woman attempts to re-create Rebecca's every move, with disastrous results. But gradually the truth about the mysterious Rebecca emerges--a truth that will forever change the woman's perspective on life and love. Based on the 1938 novel by Daphne Du Maurier, the film marked Hitchcock's American debut.
Film Notes
Hitchcock cameo: Hitchcock stands outside a phone booth watching Jack Favell (George Sanders).
Hitchcock vetoed David Niven for the role of Max de Winter.
Hitchcock had the opportunity to buy the rights for REBECCA while shooting THE LADY VANISHES but thought the price was too high at the time.
Hitchcock used miniatures for scenes of the mansion and the road leading to the house.
Industry Reviews
"...The film remains mesmerizing throughout..."
Sight and Sound - Geoffrey Macnab (12/01/2000)
"...REBECCA may be the most assured women's pic ever made..."
Entertainment Weekly - Ty Burr (01/11/2002)
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