Alfred Hitchcock’s Final Masterpiece: 'Family Plot'

Alfred Hitchcock, the master of suspense and thrills, came to an end of his long and illustrious career with the release of 'Family Plot.' This black comedy thriller, a departure from his usual genre, marked the final film he directed before he moved to the United States in 1976.

'Family Plot': A Transition to Black Comedy

'Family Plot' was one of Hitchcock's last films, and it can be seen as a transition from his traditional thriller style to a more comedic tone. This film stands out from his usual offerings but still maintains a level of intrigue and suspense that is characteristic of his work. While the film received mixed reviews and is not widely regarded as one of his greatest, it offers a unique insight into Hitchcock's creativity and his willingness to venture into different genres.

The film's plot involves two couples: one a psychic and her cab-driving boyfriend, the other a pair of professional thieves and kidnappers. Their lives come into conflict because of a search for a missing heir. Hitchcock took a hands-on approach to this project, creating his own storyboards to bring the vision of this black comedy to life.

'The Short Night': An Unfated Project

After 'Family Plot,' Hitchcock planned another film titled 'The Short Night.' However, due to his declining physical health, he had to cancel the project. This project represents a potential departure from Hitchcock's usual genre, suggesting a possible experimental phase in his later career. Although it remains unreleased, the project hints at the diverse range of stories that Hitchcock was capable of directing.

Previous British Masters: 'Jamaica Inn'

Before 'Family Plot,' Hitchcock's last British film was 'Jamaica Inn' in 1939. While it is often criticized for its substandard story and script, the film was a commercial success. It was a tumultuous production due to disagreements between Hitchcock and the leading actor, Charles Laughton. Unfortunately, due to these conflicts, the quality of the film suffered. As a result, 'Jamaica Inn' is generally regarded as one of Hitchcock's worst films.

Challenges and Collaborations: 'Rebecca' and 'Foreign Correspondent'

During his transition from Britain to the United States, Hitchcock faced significant challenges, particularly during his collaboration with David Selznick on 'Rebecca.' Despite its profitability, 'Rebecca' is often viewed more as a Selznick film than a Hitchcock film. This film won the Best Picture Oscar, a move that some viewed as controversial given other equally deserving contenders like 'The Grapes of Wrath,' 'The Philadelphia Story,' and 'The Letter.'

However, 'Foreign Correspondent' in 1940, although not Hitchcock's film in the strictest sense, continues to showcase his distinctive style and thematic elements. This collaboration with Walter Wanger and Selznick's loaning of Hitchcock resulted in a film that is both entertaining and true to Hitchcock's vision.

In summary, while 'Family Plot' was Hitchcock's final film as a director, it provided a unique glimpse into his creativity and versatility. His career, spanning from 'Jamaica Inn' to 'Foreign Correspondent,' demonstrates a remarkable range and enduring impact in the world of cinema.