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.
Alexandra Chavez
November 28, 2013
I didn't even get to watch the movie because it would not load and it says video format not supported. I am highly upset and I need to watch thi s for my film class.
Ryan Peck
January 25, 2020
I think people place Cary Grant and this film on a pedestal and give it credit it doesn't really deserve. The story is not unique, the dialogue is basic, and other than Cary Grant being seen as a larger than life actor, the film is not engaging. When someone mentions how this film is a classic, ask them why.