Film Review: The Trouble with Harry (1955)

Alfred Hitchcock, the maestro of suspense, was renowned for his dark sense of humour that frequently manifested itself in some of his most iconic thrillers. However, comedies were a rarity in his filmography, with the 1955 film The Trouble with Harry being one such notable exception. While it remains an entertaining watch, this quirky movie is often regarded as one of Hitchcock's lesser works.

Adapted from 1950 novel by British author Jack Trevor Story, the plot unfolds in the quaint Vermont town of Highwater against the backdrop of a splendid autumn day. The tranquillity of the setting is shattered when a lifeless body, later identified as Harry Worp, is discovered. This grisly turn of events sets off a chain reaction of complications for three individuals who each believe they bear responsibility for Harry's demise. These characters comprise Captain Willes (played by Edmund Gwenn), a hunter who came to hunt rabbits; Miss Gravely (played by Mildred Nativick), a spinster who had a fraught encounter with Harry that concluded with her striking him with a shoe; and Jennifer Rogers (played by Shirley MacLaine), the young and estranged wife of the deceased. As they attempt to rectify the situation, they receive assistance from Sam Marlowe (played by John Forsythe), a nonconformist painter whose amusement at the unfolding events is tempered by his growing attraction towards young widow.

The Trouble with Harry was one of Hitchcock's personal favourites, but unfortunately, it did not garner much enthusiasm from critics and audiences in North America. In contrast, the film found a more receptive audience in Europe, thanks in part to influential French critics who were building the cult of Hitchcock as the God of Auteur Cinema.

The lacklustre reception can be partly attributed to the fact that audiences expected a suspenseful thriller but received a screwball comedy instead. The Trouble with Harry doesn’t quite reach the standards of classics of that particular genre. It also has some pacing issues, particularly in the first part, with overlong expositiuon. The humour primarily derives from witty banter rather than absurd situations that would become more prominent in the film's second half.

Despite these shortcomings, the quality of film making skill is evident throughout, with Hitchcock making effective use of Vermont locations and Hollywood studio sets alike. The cast, although not featuring major stars, delivers solid performances. John Forsythe, who played the cynical artist, was soon to transition to television work for which he would become better known. He is outshone by delightful performances from veterans like Edmund Gwenn and Mildred Nativick, whose charm and talent make the absurdities of the plot easily digestible. Young Shirley MacLaine also makes a good impression in her first major film role, although her character appears somewhat underutilised.

Another important addition to The Trouble with Harry was Bernard Herrmann's score, which, while not as memorable as some of his better-known works, left such a strong impression on Hitchcock that the two would later collaborate on eight more films.

In conclusion, The Trouble with Harry might represent a disappointment to those who based their expectations solely on Hitchcock's name. However, by itself, it represents a solid black comedy that can be recommended even to today's viewers. While it may not be one of Hitchcock's most celebrated works, The Trouble with Harry is a charming and entertaining film that showcases the director's versatility and creativity in the realm of comedy.

RATING: 6/10 (++)

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