To catch a thief

This is one of Hitchcock's movies that I have always liked, perhaps because I watched it when I was growing up and before the full story line really made sense to me. (As a young child, I remember simply being dazzled by the car chase, the scenes on the French beaches, the glamorous clothes of the time and the end scene with the costume ball).

I'm not entirely sure why this film gets passed over in TCM reviews of Hitchcock's great achievements or when documentaries take viewers through the life and work of stars like Grant and Kelly. True, it isn't as stunning as North by Northwest (nor quite as provocative) or Rear Window, but it has it mysterious and suspenseful moments. The music really adds an element of mystery, even in scenes that could appear perfectly harmless otherwise.

Perhaps it is rather obvious to older viewers how the story will end and that is why it is underrated. (When I was younger, I had no idea how the story was going to work itself out.) Nevertheless, I continue to love the movie for everything from its glitzy costumes to its subtle wordplay. A personal favorite for certain.