At 92, Hollywood legend Kim Novak, best known for her dual role in Hitchcock’s “Vertigo,” shines in this heartfelt documentary by director and devoted fan Alexandre O. Philippe. As one of the last surviving stars from Hollywood’s golden age, the film’s title might hint at the dizzying view from her iconic status.
Philippe is well-suited for this intimate exploration, having previously made films about David Lynch’s connection to “The Wizard of Oz” and the famous shower scene in “Psycho.” He opens with a somber voice message from Novak, reflecting on her health and remaining time, where she sounds fragile. But in person, she is vibrant, articulate, and youthful—not from surgery, but from spirit. She engages deeply with Philippe’s questions, discussing her life, her passion for painting, and the influence of her parents. She also addresses how Hollywood and society have long imposed male expectations on women’s looks and behavior, a theme she famously portrayed in “Vertigo.”
The interview takes place at her home, mixed with clips and personal archive footage. The most captivating moment comes when Novak opens boxes of mementos she hasn’t touched in 60 years, live on camera. The highlight is when she carefully lifts the lid of a box to find the gray suit she wore for James Stewart’s character in “Vertigo,” even sniffing it to see if it still carries her scent—a truly moving moment for classic film lovers.
Of Czech descent, Novak started her career at Columbia Pictures under studio head Harry Cohn, who insulted her with a racist slur. (Cohn himself faced antisemitic remarks from Walt Disney.) Cohn insisted on changing her name from Marilyn to Kim, though the film doesn’t mention Marilyn Monroe. Novak speaks admiringly of Greta Garbo, though their personalities were worlds apart.
In the 1950s, Novak starred in films like “Pushover” with Fred MacMurray, “Phffft” with Jack Lemmon, “Pal Joey” with Frank Sinatra, and “Jeanne Eagels” with Jeff Chandler. Later, before retiring in the 1960s, she took on bold roles in “Of Human Bondage” with Laurence Harvey and “The Legend of Lylah Clare” by Robert Aldrich. In these less famous films, she often gave more dynamic performances than in “Vertigo,” where her role was restrained and haunting. Novak has felt the pressure of being crafted as an enigma.
This is an engaging and enjoyable film, though it’s a shame Novak had little to say about Hitchcock himself, despite discussing James Stewart at length. (Perhaps Philippe will next interview other Hitchcock survivors like Eva Marie Saint, 101, or Tippi Hedren, 95.) Regardless, Novak emerges as a fierce and heroic figure. “Kim Novak’s Vertigo” premiered at the Venice Film Festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Kim Novaks Vertigo Review The Overwhelming Expectations Placed on Hitchcocks Star
General Questions
Q What is the main focus of Kim Novaks review of Vertigo
A It discusses the intense pressure and expectations placed on her as the lead actress in Alfred Hitchcocks classic film
Q Why is Kim Novaks role in Vertigo considered so significant
A She played a complex dual role that required emotional depth and nuance making it one of her most memorable performances
Q Who was Kim Novak and why was she chosen for Vertigo
A She was a popular Hollywood actress in the 1950s known for her beauty and mysterious aura which Hitchcock felt perfectly suited the films themes
About the Expectations and Pressures
Q What kind of expectations did Hitchcock have for Kim Novak in Vertigo
A Hitchcock expected her to embody two distinct characters with subtle differences requiring intense emotional range and precision
Q Did Kim Novak feel overwhelmed during the filming of Vertigo
A Yes she has spoken about feeling pressured by Hitchcocks demanding direction and the complexity of the role
Q How did the public and critics react to Novaks performance initially
A Reviews were mixed at first with some criticizing her acting but over time her performance gained acclaim as a masterpiece
Q Were there any specific challenges Novak faced while working with Hitchcock
A Yes Hitchcock was known for his controlling style which sometimes clashed with Novaks own ideas about her character
Deeper Insights and Analysis
Q How does Novaks review reflect on Hitchcocks treatment of actors
A It highlights how Hitchcock often prioritized his vision over an actors comfort which could create a stressful environment
Q What impact did Vertigo have on Kim Novaks career
A It solidified her status as a serious actress but also contributed to her decision to step back from Hollywood due to the pressures
Q Are there themes in Vertigo that relate to Novaks personal experiences
A Some analysts suggest the films exploration of identity and manipulation mirrored Novaks own struggles with fame and typecasting
