Tonight on TV: Top-Rated Alfred Hitchcock & James Stewart Film!

Two years after “Rear Window” and two years before “Vertigo,” Alfred Hitchcock directed another superb thriller with a familiar feel: “The Man Who Knew Too Much.” This film was, in fact, a remake of his own 1934 movie by the same name.

Released in theaters in 1956, this espionage film takes us from Marrakech to London through a gripping plot. While vacationing in Morocco with his wife and son, Dr. McKenna meets a Frenchman who is murdered right before their eyes the day after they meet. Shortly thereafter, their son is kidnapped. Consumed with worry, the couple embarks on an investigation.

The film, which runs for 120 minutes, features two prominent American actors: James Stewart and Doris Day. Bernard Miles (“Moby Dick”), Brenda De Banzie (“Hobson’s Choice”), and Daniel Gélin (“La Cité de la peur”) also star in the film.

Third Time’s a Charm

For the second consecutive time, Alfred Hitchcock cast James Stewart in the lead role, the first being “Rope” (in 1948) and the second “Rear Window” (in 1954). Moreover, “The Man Who Knew Too Much” would not be the last time these two giants collaborated, as they would team up again two years later for “Vertigo.”

And it’s clear that Hitchcock made a wise decision in giving this new role to his trusted actor, as the film is considered one of his finest. The press gave it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5, with only a 0.3 point difference from the audience score.

Among the many reviews published on AlloCiné, some flattering comments can be found: “A finely crafted Hitchcock film where the director’s genius is evident,” “A major Hitchcock film in his catalog,” “A legendary moment that once again confirms the talents of the master of suspense!” and “An intense film where Hitchcock once again teaches us a lesson in cinema!”.

Among the standout moments in “The Man Who Knew Too Much” is the famous concert scene, from the beginning of the music to the crash of cymbals, lasting no less than 8 minutes and 36 seconds without a single word, as well as the soundtrack by Bernard Herrmann, who won an Oscar for Best Original Song. Truly great cinema from Alfred Hitchcock.

Tonight on Arte at 9:00 PM