Movies Under the Stars

Movies Under the Stars
Rear Window (1954)

Film Screening

NCPA in association with Film Heritage Foundation under license from Jonetsu Entertainment (India)

Rear Window, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, is a suspense thriller starring James Stewart and Grace Kelly. The film follows L.B. ‘Jeff’ Jefferies (Stewart), a professional photographer confined to his New York apartment with a broken leg. To pass the time, Jeff observes his neighbours through his rear window, turning into somewhat of a voyeur. He watches the lives of several residents, including a dancer, a lonely woman, newlyweds and a salesman, Lars Thorwald (Raymond Burr), who lives with his bedridden wife.

As Jeff becomes more engrossed in his neighbours’ activities, he begins to suspect that Thorwald has murdered his wife and disposed of her body. Despite scepticism from his nurse, Stella (Thelma Ritter), and his high-society girlfriend, Lisa Fremont (Grace Kelly), Jeff continues his surveillance, gathering evidence to support his theory. Lisa and Stella gradually become convinced of the potential crime, leading to a tense investigation where Lisa risks her life by entering Thorwald’s apartment. The suspense peaks when Thorwald discovers Jeff’s spying and confronts him in a dramatic showdown.

Rear Window explores themes of isolation, curiosity and the morality of spying. Hitchcock’s direction, combined with the strong performances of Stewart and Kelly, creates a narrative that keeps viewers on edge. The film remains a classic, celebrated for its innovative storytelling, set design and its commentary on human nature.

Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Screenplay: John Michael Hayes
Based on a story by Cornell Woolrich
Cinematography: Robert Burks
Music by Franz Waxman
Cast: James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey & Thelma Ritter

Admission on a first-come-first-served basis. NCPA Members will get preferential seating till 6.20 pm.