Hollywood voyeurism. If this were about a nobody it would raise hardly any interest as a plot, unless it were told with more interest and intrigue. I'm glad it is limited to one part of Hitch's career but at the same time the movie doesn't take advantage of the collapsed time. Hopkins' makeup is unconvincing and distracting! Personally, I wished more had been revealed of composer Bernard Hermann's part in Hitchcock's success.

Not knowing much about the life of Hitchcock, this film was quite a revelation to me in terms of giving an insight into his method of working, where he could apparently be quite unpleasant to his stars, except for his leading ladies who he seems to have often become infatuated with. The film also reminds us how out of the ordinary the film Psycho was, and how controversial its making, and showing was at the time - something we perhaps are surprised at given how tame it appears compared t modern horror films. The difficult relationship between Hitchcock and his wife is also laid bare. Over all a fascinating look behind the scenes of the making of Psycho.

While some movies are made to attract the widest audience possible, others instead try to find a niche. "Hitchcock" is most definitely a "niche film" primarily appealing to those interested in the Master himself, "Psycho" buffs, or just fans of the movie-making process in general.For a basic plot summary, "Hitchcock" falls into third main plot lines: First and foremost is Hitchcock's (Anthony Hopkins) tumultuous relationship with wife Alma Reville (Helen Mirren). Second, is his fascination with serial killer Ed Gein (Michael Wincott) that leads him to stand firm behind "Psycho" even when the major film studios want nothing to do with it. Third, are the interactions between him and the cast of Psycho, primarily Janet Leigh (Scarlett Johansson), Vera Miles (Jessica Biel), and Anthony Perkins (James D'arcy).For fans of Hitchcock the director, this film sheds some potential light on what must have been churning through his mind while making the motion picture he ultimately became best known for. His obsession with murder and his total devotion to his work are adeptly portrayed in the movie by director Sacha Gervasi, leading of course to a roiling home life that inevitably creeps into his movie-making ways. Even just seeing the larger-than-life Hitch (played marvelously by Hopkins) come to life on the big screen is a treat for fans of his work.Another interesting avenue this film explores in-depth is the process by which a movie gets made in Hollywood. Hitchcock is constantly in need of money, battling the censors, and struggling to meet deadlines. On a more micro level, his interactions with the main players of "Psycho" lend greater understanding into why the film ultimately became such a huge success.Overall, then, being a big Hitchcock fan for many years, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing this movie. If this kind of stuff doesn't seem like it would interest you, then more than likely it probably will not.

and convincing in many scenes. because its ambition is high and Psycho making only a part. or pretext. in fact, it seems be the film of relationship between Hitchcock and his wife. and the presence of Anthony Hopkins and Hellen Mirren in the lead roles represents the best argument. in fact, it is a nuanced and seductive portrait of a great director . its sarcasm, its fragility, his universe, vulnerability, dark side and need of support, his childish reactions and his humanity are presented with a surprising science of detail. it is not exactly a homage. only, maybe, a kind of translation. to remind the roods of an admirable filmography. and Sir Anthony Hopkins remains the best choice for a credible Hitchcock.