North By Northwest

1959 • 136 minutes
4.6
469 reviews
97%
Tomatometer
Eligible
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About this movie

Selected as one of the top 50 American films of all time by the prestigious American Film Institute, and considered by many critics to be Hitchcock's greatest film, this fast-paced thriller stars Oscar-winner Cary Grant ("Notorious," "The Philadelphia Story") as a Madison Avenue advertising exec who is mistaken for someone else and kidnapped by a group of international spies, headed by James Mason ("A Star Is Born," "Lolita"). After a hair-raising escape, he is framed for a murder he didn't commit and goes on the run with the lovely Eva Marie Saint ("Superman Returns," "On the Waterfront"). Famous for a wild plane attack and a harrowing chase across the faces of Mount Rushmore, this is quintessential Hitchcock ("Psycho," "The Birds"). With Academy Award-winner Martin Landau ("Ed Wood," "The Majestic") as Mason's evil henchman, this film is the rare combination of action, suspense and humor. MPAA Rating: NOTRATED Copyright (c) 1959 Turner Entertainment Co.

Ratings and reviews

4.6
469 reviews
Russell Rogers
August 18, 2019
Less a thriller, and more like a comedy-like version of The Fugitive (but with mobsters trying to kill the main character). Cary is absolutely perfect for this role. He's totally believable as a quick talking jokester ad guy and is so likable that you'll be rooting for him as he outwits his pursuers. The Mount Rushmore stuff is a little over-the-top for me, but most of the film is an absolute joy to watch.
Mike Young
September 12, 2013
I never cease to be amazed by this movie. But it's almost a casualty of it's fame since it has so many iconic scenes that for those watching it for the first time will probably be so jaded by what they already know about it that they won't really get the full effect. My first viewing was on tv back in the 60's where it was hacked to pieces by tv standards of the time. Now having enjoyed the film many times in it's uncut form It has it's place on my favorites list. I have to avoid watching it now so I can truly enjoy it when I do watch it.
Blake Duff
January 31, 2013
This film Hitchcock admitted had little hidden meaning compared to his others'. But it is the greatest action film ever made! With its exciting and bold camera work, intelligent dialogue, and socially ingrained images it one of the all time best. This is 007 made by the greatest of film auteurs.