The Keith & the Movies Valhalla Induction

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K&M VALHALLA

The Keith & the Movies Valhalla is a place of tribute for those movies that I hold in the highest regard. These are films that embody everything that is great about motion pictures. These are the best of the best – movies that I truly love and that stand above the rest. There are many great movies that won’t find their way into these sacred halls. But here you will find those films that I believe personify brilliance in filmmaking, storytelling, and entertainment. These glorious 5 star accomplishments are worthy of special recognition as the very best. Ok, enough of the high drama! In other words, these are my favorite movies of all time, ok?

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Rear WindowREAR WINDOW (1954) – Alfred Hitchcock remains one of the greatest filmmakers in cinema history. With so many incredible movies on his résumé, it would be a challenge to pick his best film. But for me the choice is simple. “Rear Window” is my favorite Alfred Hitchcock picture. There’s so many shining examples of greatness in this film. Hitchcock not only tells a great story but he draws us into the voyeuristic world of his lead character indicting us in the process. Jimmy Stewart gives a brilliant performance. He spends the entire film confined to a wheelchair in his apartment while observing his neighbors and what he believes to be a murder. Grace Kelly is simply stunning as Stewart’s skeptical girlfriend who soon finds herself in the middle of the potential crime. “Rear Window” featured what was at the time the biggest and most elaborate indoor set ever. It’s really incredible to behold and it plays a huge part in the movie’s success. “Rear Window” is an phenomenal film. Whether it’s Cornell Woolrich’s marvelous script, stand out direction from one of cinema’s best, or superb acting from its fabulous cast, “Rear Window” works on every level. It more than deserves its place among the very best.

Rear Window is the fourth inductee into the Keith & the Movies Valhalla. But there are more amazing movies to come in the near future so stay tuned. What are your thoughts on this Alfred Hitchcock classic? Is it worth the accolades it’s received or is it an overrated picture? You now know my opinion. I’d love to hear yours. Take time to share your comments below.

27 thoughts on “The Keith & the Movies Valhalla Induction”

  1. Rear Window deserves a spot in any shrine of great movies. The film is so inventive with the limitations the story places on it and the actors are terrific. It’s not my favorite Hitchcock, but that’s like saying chocolate isn’t my favorite ice cream, I’d still love a dish and would never complain about the offer.

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    • Glad you’re so fond of it too. If I had to say, I would list Rear Window as my favorite from Hitch. I dearly love several others too but this gem always stands out in my mind.

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    • Thanks Mark. I gotta agree, this is a classic. I think one thing that has always impressed me is how Hitchcock can do do much within a small environment. It’s like another film of his that I love “Dial M for Murder”.

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  5. Great post Keith! I REALLY need to see this. I’m striving to see as many James Stewart as possible in the next year or so and this is at the top of my list 😀

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    • Obviously I’m a huge fan of it. I think I just appreciate what Hitchcock was able to do in such a confined space. I also love Stewart’s performance.

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