“There’s nothing like a love song.... to give you a good laugh”
A film’s reputation proceeds it, especially if it’s title is ‘Notorious’. Hitchcock’s thriller, spy romance starring two of the biggest stars at the time of its release, Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman. Screened at Cinema Rediscovered before the film is re-released back on the big screens and as part of the BFI Cary Grant season, so if you've not seen it, now you get the chance to see the film how it was meant to be seen.
As the daughter of a convicted German war criminal, Alicia, is recruited by US government agent, Devlin, to infiltrate a group of her father’s comrades, particularly Alexander Sebastian, who used to have more than a crush on her. But as with most best laid plans, Alicia and Devlin fall in love, putting a strain on her mission and leaving him jealous. This is Hitchcock though so don’t expect the usual beats to this sort of film. Hitchcock knows how to build suspense as well where to put the camera and how to break the rules.
The film is famous for breaking the Hayes Code as it includes kissing, open mouthed for more than 3 seconds. I always remember this film as the ones where Ingrid Bergman and Cary Grant’s faces are stuck together for long periods of time, but luckily this film is more than what makes it, notorious.
Alicia is an unconventional leading lady, as she does what she wants, even drunk driving in the early hours. Her reputation proceeds her and doesn’t back down from a challenge. It insinuated on more than one occasion in the film that she’s been around, slept with a few men and for this reason she is right for her mission. But her keen eye and composure, even when drunk is not seen as an asset, except by Devlin. It’s refreshing to see a character like her drink and not care for the judgement put upon her and sacrifices none of her charm and elegance. Next to Grant’s Devlin, the epitomy of suave, they create a very beautiful couple which is remarked on in the film. But they also make an excellent spy couple but this might be us being blinded by their pairing.
As well as the romance and thrills, there is the very welcome comedic element sliced in. Any time Sebastian’s mother hears that Alicia is in pain, her happy smirk is hard not to laugh at as the hatred is so obvious. Quips and witty comments are thrown out to also create a humorous atmosphere balancing the serious tone which is the main part of the film. With the film released back into cinemas, hopefully this will give a wider audience to experience this Hitchcock classic.
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@BFI