Sabotage (1936)
The 39 Steps (1935)
The 39 Steps (1959)
The Thirty Nine Steps (1978)
The Lady Vanishes (1938) ///
Sabotage (1936) A richly atmospheric London provides the backdrop for anarchist destruction. Dark humor, tense detail and a streamlined story are the bedrock for some thrilling sequences and a captivating Sylvia Sidney is the emotional, anguished heart that leads to murder.
The 39 Steps (1935) Told with flair and an infectious sense of fun, prototype chase thriller with enough sly wit and narrative twists to propel innocent Robert Donat and irritable Madeleine Carroll from London to Scotland and back. Unflagging pace combines with striking visuals.
The 39 Steps (1959) Polished, anonymous retread makes minor variations to original adaptation and relies on easy appeal of Kenneth More, accentuating lighthearted tone that stifles suspense. Attractive location photography, without visual identity. Taina Elg is a reluctant accomplice.
The Thirty Nine Steps (1978) Solidly made and designed chase thriller that plays on memories of Hitchcock original while revisiting source novel with breezy action. Fine cast sees tense John Mills intrude on reluctant Robert Powell to prevent political assassination on eve of World War.
The Lady Vanishes (1938) Beautifully realized comedy thriller, brimming with detail that rewards repeat viewings and shot through with Hitchcock's devilish wit. Script and cast bring humanity to the narrative and enclosed train setting ramps up tension and fun. Genuine classic.
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