In 1927, London audiences got their first taste of a Hitchcock masterpiece with The Lodger. This program traces the first half of Alfred Hitchcock’s life, looking at his upbringing, education, and incredible rise as a director. Along the way, the video details his apprenticeship with Fritz Lang, his production of the first British “talkie,” Blackmail, his move to Hollywood, a tumultuous collaboration with David O. Selznick, and the formation of his own short-lived studio. Footage from The 39 Steps, The Man Who Knew Too Much, and Under Capricorn highlights his use of montage, the “10-minute take,” and his philosophy of “pure cinema.” Also featured is a wealth of commentary from actors, writers, daughter Pat Hitchcock, and the director himself, including excerpts from François Truffaut’s famed 26-hour interview. A BBCW Production. (51 minutes)