Champagne

pithy review (supplied by hitch): that was flat champagne.... nothing bubbly or noteworthy here, except the beginning and ending scenes which are mirror images of one another (pov through the upturned bottom of a champagne glass, nice touch sir alfred)...

Alfred Hitchcock #1

A fun little romp. Its fluff but it entertains.

Society drama from Hitchcock's early days. Not worth it unless you're studying Hitchcock for some reason.

After watching Rich and Strange then this, I wonder about this Hitchcock director doing some lazy cruise ship comedies that are instantly forgettable. The few highlights are some inventive camerawork and a star that looks a little like a Japanese anime girl with her tiny pointed chin. Thank heavens all the expatriates congregate in a single restaurant in Paris or we'd never have the coincidental meetings we get here. My only laugh: the hand prints.

Some great images in here and inspired editing, but those are few and far between. Weak early comedy effort, feels like a paycheck job. Only worthwhile for completists.

27.750

Not much to cheer for here apart from the opening and ending shot.

None of the third act of Champagne makes much sense, but its fun to see Hitchcock making strides technologically, with some fine zooms and a great early tracking shot. Betty Balfour is exuberant, as well.