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Family Plot (1976)

Despite limitations from his deteriorating health conditions, Hitchcock’s final film is quickly paced and high energy from beginning to end (he actually had a pacemaker installed in the film’s pre-production). It’s the story of two similar couples, both on a quest for cash, but neither aware of each other’s intentions.  One couple is searching for the heir to a fortune and the other is deeply rooted in a number of ransom schemes.

As usual, Hitchcock clues the audience into the film’s secrets well before he does the same for the characters, and then lets us guess how everybody is going to react as the story unfolds. The film’s suspenseful plot is keenly offset by light hearted humor which is a deviation from the dark novel from which the story is based.  Also, Hitchcock’s subtle use of irony throughout the film is an added reward for those who pay attention.

Based on the strength of Hitchcock’s name alone he could have drummed up just about just about any cast of actors he wanted, but the film is free from any really “big” names because he was tired paying for them.  Many fans of the master reject this film when they discuss Hitchcock’s greatest works. While it is indeed hard to hold it up against some of previous projects, it certainly deserves more credit than it is often given.

So come on people, give the Family Plot some love.  And interestingly enough, Hitchcock discussed not making his trademark cameo in this project.  But after some gentle persuasion he finally compromised and included a shot of his infamous silhouette projected on an office window.

(Directed by Alfred Hitchcock)

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