North by Northwest (1959) Review in 2025
North by Northwest is a classic 1959 thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock, starring Cary Grant as Roger Thornhill, an advertising executive mistaken for a government agent. The movie follows Thornhill's adventures as he tries to clear his name and uncover a sinister plot.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for mature audiences, but not recommended for young children due to some intense scenes and themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of thrillers, adventure, and mystery. It's a classic that holds up well even today, and its influence can still be seen in many modern films.
Spoiler Alert!
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Roger Thornhill, an advertising executive, is mistaken for a government agent and becomes embroiled in a complex web of espionage. He teams up with Eve Kendall, a beautiful and charming woman, and together they try to uncover the truth behind a sinister plot involving espionage, murder, and deceit.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is engaging, suspenseful, and full of twists and turns. The plot is well-structured, and the pacing is well-balanced, keeping the viewer engaged throughout.
acting9.80/10
The acting is superb, with Cary Grant delivering a standout performance as Roger Thornhill. Eva Marie Saint and James Mason also deliver strong performances, bringing depth and nuance to their respective roles.
characters9.20/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each character bringing their own unique personality to the story. Cary Grant shines as Roger Thornhill, bringing a sense of charm and wit to the role.
direction9.90/10
Alfred Hitchcock's direction is masterful, with each scene carefully crafted to build tension and suspense. The use of camera angles, lighting, and music is exceptional, adding to the overall sense of unease and excitement.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, with the use of location shooting and clever camera work adding to the sense of realism and authenticity. The black and white cinematography is also a highlight, with the use of shadows and lighting creating a sense of drama and tension.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's engaging story, well-developed characters, and masterful direction make it a standout classic. The cinematography and acting are also exceptional, with Cary Grant delivering a standout performance.
Cons
The movie's pacing can be a bit slow at times, and some of the themes and plot points may feel a bit dated.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a spy, I'm an advertising man."
"The birds of a feather flock together."
"You're not even a good liar."
