Alfred Hitchcock: Filmmaker and Philosopher

Alfred Hitchcock was a masterful director who subtly explored philosophical themes in his films, such as evil, the mind of another person, the truth, and humanity. He used cinematic techniques to convey suspense and drama and to engage and advance these issues, appealing to both novice and seasoned philosophers and film enthusiasts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 16 June 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

"Alfred Hitchcock, the legendary director, captivated audiences of all ages and received critical acclaim throughout his extraordinarily long career. What may have been perceived by many viewers but not fully articulated until now is the profound extent to which his works subtly delve into philosophical themes. What constitutes evil, and how does it both conceal and reveal itself? Can we truly comprehend the inner workings of another person's mind? What is at stake when one possesses knowledge that cannot be spoken of or persuades others to believe it? How does Hitchcock's loving critique of humanity manifest itself in his films? Why are Hitchcock's works often enigmatic? What lies behind his strategic use of humor?

Hitchcock employs a range of cinematic techniques, including camera angles, lighting, editing, and sound, to convey suspense and drama, but he also uses them to engage and advance philosophical issues. Roche adeptly uncovers Hitchcock's engagement with these philosophical themes, making the content accessible to both novice and seasoned philosophers, as well as passionate admirers of Hitchcock's films. By exploring these profound questions, Hitchcock's work continues to resonate with audiences, leaving a lasting impact on the art of filmmaking and the human psyche."

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 138 x 215 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474221306