An Analysis of Elements of Spellbound Alfred

Alfred Hitchcock's 1945 film, Spellbound, has been described by Abel (2002) as an example of the influence exerted on Hitchcock by expressionism. Expressionism is defined by Giannetti and Eyman (2001) as a style of filmmaking that distorts time and space as ordinarily perceived in reality. Such a film places emphasis on the essential characterization of objects and people rather than on their superficial appearance. As is typical of this genre, Spellbound employs fragmentary editing, extreme angles and lighting effects, and the use of distorting lenses and special effects. Abel (2002) stated that Spellbound employs a dream sequence and its twisted history to establish what is ultimately a surreal environment.

Hitchcock, says Abel (2002), tended to dismiss this film as little more than "pseudo-psychoanalysis" despite its wide audience appeal and positive critical reception. Filmed in black-and-white, the lighting effects are particularly vivid some fifty-odd years after the f