Hitch Midterm:ShadowOfADoubt,ToCatchAThi Essay, Research Paper

In using the secondary or supporting actors for comic relief, Hitchcock colorfully rounds

out the plot atmosphere and provides some added importance to them instead of using them as

cardboard cutouts (as happens in most films). The humor gives the viewer a temporary break

from concentration on the plot and other elements. But it also simultaneously enhances significant

points of these elements from an alternate angle. That is, Hitchcock’s humor will have the

attentive viewer examine the film even during apparent rests in the progression of the film.

Moments into To Catch a Thief, brief reaction shots of rich women screaming their heads

off right after discovering the burglary of their prized jewels are funny because of their short

shock and subsequent transition to other, different scenes. (It seems like anything out of our

present familiarities in pondering logical connections gives us some humor.) Hitchcock is known

to make bungling fools of his police characters. Two are staking out outside of an entrance

waiting for Robie and are in the midst of playing what seems like hacky sack. They totter and bolt

to their patrol car after seeing Robie speed out with Francie.

Shadow of a Doubt incorporates several humorous, short scenes. Joe Newton and his

fellow murder buff, Herbert Hawkins, frequently interrupt the plot to discuss various murder

devices. Joe: “I’d know about the soda in my coffee [if you were trying to murder me].” Herb:

“Doesn’t matter. You’d be dead now.” When young Charlie becomes anxiously suspicious of her

uncle Charlie as Joe and Herb discuss at the dinner table, Emma responds “It’s your father’s way

of relaxing.” The kids Anne and Roger also come out with acute lines throughout the film,

accentuating the dopiness of their parents.