To Catch a Thief

To Catch a Thief
This minor 1955 work by Alfred Hitchcock, one of the lighter entries of his creative peak in the 1950s, is still imbued with the master's stock themes of shared guilt and romantic ambivalence. It is also hardly lacking in Hitchcockian cinematic inventiveness, such as a famous, often-imitated sequence in which some smooching between stars Cary Grant and Grace Kelly is intercut with a fireworks show that just happens to be going on outside in a Riviera setting. Grant plays a reformed cat burglar who is suspected of reviving his trade, though he knows someone else is using his old methods. A very enjoyable experience, but don't get this confused with Hitchcock's other Cary Grant film of that decade, which was a masterpiece: North by Northwest. --Tom Keogh
Customer Review: Hitchcock Does Light Romantic Suspense
The tourists along the French Riviera are being robbed of their valuable jewelry. And the robberies have all the trademarks of notorious jewel thief John Robie (Cary Grant). There's just one problem, John retired years ago after serving time in prison and the French underground. But the police won't take his word for it and are insisting he's returned to his old ways. So John decides that the only way to clear his name is to find the real burglar. Working closely with insurance man Hughson (John Williams) he attempts to pick the next victim so he can catch the burglar. And he settles on Jessie Stevens (Jessie Royce Landis) and her daughter Frances (Grace Kelly). But Frances turns out to be more of a distraction then the bachelor John counted on. Will he succumb to temptation? And will he catch the thief? Those looking for a typical Hitchcock thriller will be highly disappointed. Yes, there's a bit of a mystery here, but it is pretty light. Instead, the middle segment is devoted to the budding relationship between John and Frances. And it is a complete hoot. I was laughing so hard at some of the lines. And they got away with some pretty suggestion comments, too. Frankly, I was disappointed when the movie went back to focusing on the mystery, although it was a satisfying ending. And I have to mention the scenery. It was filmed on location. I'm ready to hop the next plane to see the French Riviera myself. This may be lighter then Hitchcock's normal fair, but it is plenty fun. Sit back and get ready to enjoy a good film.
Customer Review: great classic adventure
This is a true classic, great drama, wonderful acting, incredible sets, locations and wardrobe. The chemistry in this movie between Cary Grant and Grace Kelly is great. This is a love story but with enough action and adventure to keep the guys watching too...a great date movie.