To Catch a Thief is a 1955 American romantic thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The movie features Cary Grant and Grace Kelly and is based on the 1952 novel of the same name by David Dodge. It tells the story of a retired jewel thief who sets out to prove his innocence after being suspected of returning to his former occupation. The film is set in the South of France in the '50s and is known for its charming and glamorous portrayal of the location and its characters. With a runtime of 106 minutes, the movie received positive reviews for its charm and the chemistry between the lead actors. It has a 92% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Plot
The plot of To Catch a Thief (1955) revolves around a retired jewel thief, John Robie, who is living in luxury on the French Riviera. When a series of jewel thefts occur, he becomes the prime suspect due to his criminal past. To clear his name, he sets out to catch the copycat thief responsible for the recent crimes. Along the way, he befriends a wealthy American widow, Jessie Stevens, and her daughter, Frances. When their jewels are also stolen, Robie must find the real burglar to prove his innocence.
Trailer
Cast
To Catch a Thief (1955) Full Cast:
Main Cast:
- Cary Grant as John Robie
- Grace Kelly as Frances Stevens
- Jessie Royce Landis as Jessie Stevens
- John Williams as H.H. Hughson
- Charles Vanel as Bertani
- Brigitte Auber as Danielle Foussard
- Jean Martinelli as Commissaire Leblanc
- Georgette Anys as Beatrice Leclerc
Supporting Cast:
- Roland Lesaffre as Dumas
- Dominic Diago as Inspecteur Doré
- Pierre Larquey as Jules
- Alma Kruger as Mrs. Northcott
- Jules Croiset as Hotel Porter
- Fernand Sardou as Maitre d'Hotel
- Charles Goldner as Auctioneer
- Madame Simone Valère as Woman at Auction
- Doris Nolan as Mrs. Abigail S. Vandervander
- Edward Coleby as Vandervander's Butler
- Peggy Moran as Maid
- Charles Laval as Gardener
- Roger Tréville as Train Conductor
- Charles Bulos as Nightclub Orchestra Leader
- Michel François as Waiter
- André Carnège as Bartender
- Denise Glaser as Maid at Stevens' Villa
- Jacques Marin as Maitre d'Hotel at Casino
- Albert Rémy as Croupier
- René Blancard as Taxi Driver
- Henri Vilars as Policeman
- Georges Galpérine as Plainclothesman
- Georges Sellier as Nightclub Patron
- Pierre Michel-Beck as Nightclub Patron
- Jean Debucourt as Nightclub Patron
- Jean Lefebvre as Nightclub Patron
- Robert Le Fort as Nightclub Patron
- Georges Lannes as Nightclub Patron
- Lucien Raimbourg as Nightclub Patron
- Pierre Mirat as Nightclub Patron
- Marcel Pérès as Nightclub Patron
- Paul Demange as Nightclub Patron
- Roger Desmarets as Nightclub Patron
- Paul Faivre as Nightclub Patron
- André Numès Fils as Nightclub Patron
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Writer: John Michael Hayes
Box Office Gross: $6,184
Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Mystery & thriller
Release Date (Theaters): Aug 5, 1955
Release Date (Streaming): Jan 2, 2017
Theme
The theme of To Catch a Thief revolves around romance, suspense, and the theme of redemption. The film explores the tension between the lead characters, the thrill of the cat-and-mouse chase, and the idea of atonement for past misdeeds.
Reception
The film received positive reviews for its charm, the chemistry between the lead actors, and its glamorous portrayal of the French Riviera. It holds a 92% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes and is well-regarded for its entertainment value and stylish presentation.
Production Challenges
The production of the film faced challenges in capturing the beauty of the French Riviera while dealing with the technical complexities of filming on location. Additionally, there were reported challenges in managing the relationship dynamics between the lead actors and the director.
Settings
The film is set against the stunning backdrop of the French Riviera in the 1950s, showcasing its luxurious and picturesque locations, which play a significant role in the visual storytelling and the overall ambiance of the movie.
Visual Styles and Techniques
Director Alfred Hitchcock employed his signature visual style, including elegant and suspenseful camera work, to create a sense of glamour and intrigue. The film features breathtaking aerial shots, stylish set designs, and meticulous attention to detail in the costumes and cinematography.
Trivia and Fun Facts
- Grace Kelly's iconic wardrobe in the film was designed by Edith Head and contributed to the popularization of the "Riviera look" in the 1950s.
- The film marked the third and final collaboration between Alfred Hitchcock and Grace Kelly.
- Cary Grant performed many of his own stunts during the filming of the movie, showcasing his physical agility and charisma.
