In this Hitchcock suspense/thriller, an unsuspecting American family (Jimmy Stewart, Doris Day and their young son) get caught up in political intrigue while vacationing in Morroco after they befriend a mysterious Frenchman. But the Frenchman gets stabbed because he knew too much (an assassination plot which is going to take place in London), and as he lies dying on a street full of onlookers, he confides to Jimmy about the plot. However, in order to keep Jimmy quiet, the conspirators kidnap his son. Since Jimmy and Doris can't go to the police and they can't just allow the assassination to take place, they take matters into their own hands...
When this flick was made, Jimmy and Doris were at the zenith of their careers, and they both deliver exceptional performances, especially for Doris where we get a rare chance to see her showcase her talent as a dramatic actress. They have great chemistry together as an "old married couple" which is something that the Doris character vehemently denies in the picture.
The portrayal of their relationship is something that should not be overlooked. Doris is a former singing star who sacrificed fame and career so that she could be a housewife to Jimmy, who is a doctor practicing in the Midwest. However, she seems to harbor some resentment for having made this decision, and you can see from her constant ridiculing and scolding that she believes that she is his superior. Their relationship seems to be crumbling and in one very emotional scene from Doris, it does not appear that the marriage will survive. However, the kidnapping ultimately provides them the opportunity to bond as they work together to try to get their son back.
This is one of the most interesting, suspenseful and enjoyable of all Hitchcock films, but because it was a remake, it did not receive all of the acclaim it deserves. This movie has everything, including comedic elements and great music (Que Sera Sera and a score from Bernard Herrmann) that is worked into the storyline. This is a must see that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
When this flick was made, Jimmy and Doris were at the zenith of their careers, and they both deliver exceptional performances, especially for Doris where we get a rare chance to see her showcase her talent as a dramatic actress. They have great chemistry together as an "old married couple" which is something that the Doris character vehemently denies in the picture.
The portrayal of their relationship is something that should not be overlooked. Doris is a former singing star who sacrificed fame and career so that she could be a housewife to Jimmy, who is a doctor practicing in the Midwest. However, she seems to harbor some resentment for having made this decision, and you can see from her constant ridiculing and scolding that she believes that she is his superior. Their relationship seems to be crumbling and in one very emotional scene from Doris, it does not appear that the marriage will survive. However, the kidnapping ultimately provides them the opportunity to bond as they work together to try to get their son back.
This is one of the most interesting, suspenseful and enjoyable of all Hitchcock films, but because it was a remake, it did not receive all of the acclaim it deserves. This movie has everything, including comedic elements and great music (Que Sera Sera and a score from Bernard Herrmann) that is worked into the storyline. This is a must see that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
