MUBI

A decent little mystery story. Saw it again recently (Sept. 2011) and was struck by the difference between the true depth of this movie, which was filmed in 3D, and the layer effect of the mostly post-converted 3D movies hitting movie screens the last couple of years. Yeah, the 3D was pretty much a gimmick in “Dial M for Murder”, but Hitchcock understood something most folks making 3D films don’t; 3D can heighten motion away from the viewer as well as toward the viewer.

This isn’t my favorite Hitchcock film (that’s Rear Window), but it’s a good one nonetheless. Dial M for Murder is adapted from a stage play, and as is often the case in these circumstances, all of the action occurs on a single set. The story of a man planning to murder his philandering wife, the claustrophobia inherent in this situation works to Hitchcock’s advantage, much in the same way it does in Rear Window. Ray Milland makes for a wonderful creeper, and even though I find Grace Kelly to be somewhat grating with her too-perfectness, she really is the ultimate Hitchcock Blonde. Dial M was originally shot in 3D, which is why it abounds with low angle shots meant to emphasize depth. When viewed in regular old 2D, the effect adds to the tense, off-kilter feel that permeates throughout the film.