Hitch - Alfred the Great (1999)

Synopsis: Forming the first half of the BBCW Series HITCH: THE GENIUS OF ALFRED HITCHCOCK, this in-depth documentary takes an exhaustive look at the life and work of a man who is arguably one of the world's... Forming the first half of the BBCW Series HITCH: THE GENIUS OF ALFRED HITCHCOCK, this in-depth documentary takes an exhaustive look at the life and work of a man who is arguably one of the world's finest film directors. Beginning with the director's childhood, HITCH: ALFRED THE GREAT examines Hitchcock's family life, education, and the way that his interest in film emerged. The program touches on the key events in the director's upbringing and early career in the movie business, starting with his job as an apprentice to Fritz Lang. Other major developments include Hitchcock's work on BLACKMAIL (the first talkie), his decision to head west, and his briefly fulfilled dreams of running his own movie studio. The first half of the director's career is brought to life through never-before-seen footage, film clips, and interviews with many important characters in the film business. Several of the director's early works are discussed in great detail, with film historians offering their insights on THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH, UNDER CAPRICORN, and THE 39 STEPS. Hitchcock fans should walk away with a greater understanding of what the director meant by "pure cinema." [More]