Alfred Hitchcock: Filmmaker and Philosopher(Philosophical Filmmakers)

Hitchcock was a masterful director, popular with audiences of all ages and critically acclaimed both during and after his unusually long career. What may have been sensed by many viewers but not fully articulated until now is the extent to which his works subtly engage philosophical themes: What is evil, and how does it shield and reveal itself? Can we know what is inside the mind of another person? What is at stake when one knows the truth but cannot speak of it or cannot persuade others? How is Hitchcock's loving critique of humanity manifested in his films? Why are Hitchcock's works so often ambiguous? What is the hidden purpose and theory behind his use of humor? Hitchcock employs cinematic techniques–from camera angles and use of light to editing and sound–partly to convey suspense and drama but also to engage and advance philosophical issues, ranging from identity crises to moral ugliness. Roche unlocks Hitchcock's engagement with philosophical themes, and he does so in a way that appeals to both the novice and the seasoned philosopher, as well as enthusiastic admirers of Hitchcock's films.

Table of Contents:
Preface Acknowledgements 1. Hitchcock's Philosophical Universe 2. Hitchcock as Master of Form 3. Shadow of a Doubt as a Cinematic and Philosophical Masterpiece 4. Hitchcock and Beyond 5. Conclusion Bibliography Index

About the Author :
Mark W. Roche is Rev. Edmund P. Joyce, C.S.C. Professor of German Language and Literature and Concurrent Professor of Philosophy, University of Notre Dame, USA.

Review :
With characteristic precision, Mark Roche urges us to see through the thrills and entertainment value of Alfred Hitchcock's films into their philosophical heart. He convincingly argues that timeless philosophical questions are central, not incidental, to Hitchcock's work. We are better people for thoughtfully engaging them. Alfred Hitchcock was an entertainer and an artist, not a philosopher. Mark Roche shows that his films, however, were profoundly and coherently philosophical. Roche brings his enthusiasm and erudition to the puzzle-master that was Hitchcock. He teases out the director's underlying humanity and irreverent religious thinking. Moreover, he achieves the delightfully unexpected result of making us want to view these often-viewed films once again. Mark Roche's book is a very valuable contribution to Hitchcockian scholarship. His insightful reflections will be a welcome addition to the library of anyone interested in the study of film and philosophy. My admiration is so great that I include an interview with him in my course on Existentialism and Film.” Written with depth, lucidity and precision, Mark Roche's masterful analysis of Hitchcock's cinematography demonstrates that, propelled by suspense and humor, fear and laughter, courage and love, his films open up the possibility of a reconciliation of tragedy and comedy in human existence.