Voyeurism theme and the ethics of watching
Point of view editing techniques: Jeff’s subjective point of view becomes symbolic of the male (patriarchal/chauvinistic) gaze. Hitchcock suggests there is a tendency to see the world through the male gaze; Jeff’s camera symbolises a patriarchal framework.
The camera also captures people’s tendency to watch: we share a natural curiosity to pry into the secret lives of others: become a “race of Peeping Toms”: the helicopter hovering over head parallels Jeff’s alternative “rear window” vision
Symbolism of apartment-style living: closeness facilities “rear window” watching
Through editing techniques, Hitchcock match cuts from Jeff (watcher) to the objects (watched) and then back to Jeff’s emotional reactions: this emphasises his emotional engagement (entertainment, curiosity and pleasure)
Is it ethical to watch the freckles on someone’s back?
Dangerous/ Uncomfortable/Ethical challenges
Seeing into one’s most private and inner being (until one sees the “freckles on the back of his neck” presents ethical dilemmas. (Can be dangerous)
Seeing forbidden things presents challenges: For example, Stella and Jeff consider their response to Miss Lonelyheart’s acts of desperation, especially when she is contemplating taking the pills
Thorwald is depicted as villainous throughout to show the dangers.
However, owing to the fact that Jeff catches the criminal, Hitchcock suggests that there is a role for vigilance.
Entertaining/Murder narrative: filmgoers are lured into Jeff’s perspective to follow the denouement of Thorwald’s crime
Typical essays:
Voyeurism is presented as both entertaining and dangerous. Discuss.
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