Sir Alfred Joseph Hitchcock

Date of Birth
13 August 1899, Leytonstone, London, England, UK

Date of Death
29 April 1980, Bel Air, California, USA (renal failure)

Began directing career
In the UK, 1922



Case study notes:

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  Regarded as one of the most iconic and highly influential directors and producers who created many techniques in the thriller genre. He is one of the most well known and successful directors of all time.


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  Moved from the UK to Hollywood.


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  He directed more than fifty feature films within his career which lasted six decades.


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  Famous for his specialist and unmatchable control of pace and suspense through his films.


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  Drew upon the society’s fears and fantasies and preferred suspense thrillers rather than surprise thrillers.


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  Usually portrayed innocent people caught up in circumstances beyond their control or understanding.


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  Hitchcock attended St. IGNATIUS COLLEGE in Enfield, London! Regarded his childhood as lonely and sheltered.


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  Pondered on personal experiences and incorporated aspects into his films. For example the idea of being harshly treated or wrongfully accused is a common feature in Hitchcock's films. As punishment his mum would make him stand at the foot of her bed for hours. This waiting upon his mum is reflected by the character Norman Bates in Psycho.


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  Often had a trademark cameo role in his films.


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  Apparently he preferred female blondes in his films.

Achievements:

• Won ‘Academy Award’ for Best Picture with Rebecca


• Four others were ‘Academy Award’ nominations


• Won ‘The Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award’ for lifetime achievement, 1967.


• Won ‘American Film Institute’ Life Achievement Award, 1979.
  
  
  http://www.imdb.com/
  http://www.wikipedia.com/