Rope

"Rope” is a psychological thriller. It was adapted from Patrick Hamilton’s Play which appeared in 1929. The Play was based upon the real life murderers Leopold and Loeb who killed an innocent man to see how it felt. The case became very famous in America. It was linked to the ideas of Nietzsche and his notion of ‘Superman’ a morally superior being. These ideas influenced Hitler and the rise of the Nazis.

The film was made in 1948 and directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

What makes this film famous is the unique editing. Hitchcock wanted to film the story as one long continuous take so that it was like watching a play and the audience felt they were ‘living’ the action.However, in his time Hitchcock had to work with 10 minute rolls. He tried his best to hide his cuts but they are noticeable to a more modern audience. Using this editing technique creates a feeling of claustrophobia. The actors and the audience are both ‘trapped’ in the film. The fact that the body is present throughout the film adds to the tension as the fear of discover exists from the onset.

Another fascinating element to the film is the way homosexuality is portrayed. The relationship between the two murderers is clearly romantic but due to the times, Hitchcock wasn't allowed to state that.