13 Best Alfred Hitchcock Movies, Ranked

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Alfred Hitchcock is renowned as a ‘master of thrills’ due to the clever, captivating films he created and his precise narrative style. Over the span of his extensive career, he earned global recognition by directing more than 50 movies. The following titles showcase merely a fraction of his impressive body of work. Several of these films have also been included in the ranks of the greatest movies ever made.

Despite receiving five Oscar nominations, Alfred Hitchcock never won the award for Best Director. Yet, his impact on filmmaking remains significant even today. Known primarily for his thriller genre, Hitchcock’s movies also featured elements of action, romance, and humor, often showcased through his brief appearances in many productions. Moreover, he is credited with coining the term “MacGuffin,” a plot device that serves as a catalyst for character actions, although it holds little intrinsic importance within the story itself.

This compilation includes thirteen outstanding films by Alfred Hitchcock, each one essential viewing for any cinephile. The selection is drawn from the author’s personal appreciation of these films, but they have also been verified by their Rotten Tomatoes ratings. You won’t find a movie here with less than 93% positive reviews from critics, and every single title on this list is a treasure. Here are the top thirteen Alfred Hitchcock movies, ranked in order of excellence.

13. The Birds

The latest film on this list, inspired by a short story by Daphne du Maurier, is either incredibly terrifying or laughably absurd, depending on your point of view. The plot revolves around Melanie Daniels (Tippi Hedren), a wealthy socialite from San Francisco who encounters Mitch Brenner (Rod Taylor) in a pet store and swiftly develops feelings for him. In an attempt to win him over, she journeys to Bodega Bay, where Mitch’s family resides, only to find herself caught up in a nightmare involving birds. Over several days, the townspeople of Bodega Bay are subjected to attacks by various species of birds. The avian assault results in the death of Mitch’s neighbor and Melanie’s friend Annie (Suzanne Pleshette) and even triggers a fire at a local gas station. In the end, Melanie escapes Bodega Bay injured and traumatized, but fortunately, she survives.

Although it may seem like “The Birds” is merely a story about birds, it actually explores deeper fears related to our feeling of safety being threatened. While many people may not fear birds themselves, the idea of them suddenly attacking in large numbers can be terrifying. This film serves as a warning of nature reclaiming its dominance, which is undeniably a chilling concept.

Starring: Tippi Hedron, Rod Taylor, Jessica Tandy, Suzanne Pleshette, Veronica Cartwright

Runtime: 1h 59m

Year: 1963

Where to stream: Rent on major platforms

12. The 39 Steps

The first film on this list, “The 39 Steps,” was produced by Hitchcock while he was still based in Britain. This film is a loose adaptation of the novel by John Buchan, sharing the same title. In the movie, an ordinary man named Richard Hannay (portrayed by Robert Donat) finds himself entangled in a web of espionage when he invites a woman back to his flat and discovers her murdered. The only clues Hannay has are the mention of someone stealing British military secrets, the phrase “the 39 steps,” and a map of Scotland with a particular building circled. With these few leads, Hannay escapes his apartment, catches a train to Scotland, and spends the remainder of the movie chasing after answers while simultaneously eluding the police.

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I can’t help but acknowledge that “The 39 Steps” set an unparalleled precedent for wrongfully accused characters in cinema that followed. It’s fascinating to witness how, even in his early career, Alfred Hitchcock demonstrated a profound aptitude for crafting suspense and tension.

Featuring: Robert Donat, Madeleine Carroll, Lucie Mannheim, Godfrey Tearle, Peggy Ashcroft, and Wylie Watson

This production includes: Robert Donat, Madeleine Carroll, Lucie Mannheim, Godfrey Tearle, Peggy Ashcroft, and Wylie Watson.

Runtime: 1h 26m

Year: 1935

Where to stream: Prime Video, Max, Hulu, The Roku Channel, YouTube TV, Tubi

11. Suspicion

Among Alfred Hitchcock’s works, only one film, “Suspicion,” has been awarded an Oscar for acting, with Joan Fontaine taking home the Best Actress trophy. In this movie, Fontaine plays Lina, a naive woman who harbors initial suspicions towards Cary Grant’s character, Johnnie Aysgarth, due to his good looks. However, after hearing her father tell her mother that she would never marry, Lina unexpectedly kisses him. This act initiates an intense (for the time) romance, culminating in their elopement. Upon returning from their honeymoon, Lina learns that Johnnie is financially insolvent despite the lavish honeymoon and luxurious home. As time passes, Lina comes to suspect that Johnnie is a habitual liar and starts questioning his every word. Yet, she finds herself unable to leave him, even though she fears he may be planning her death for the insurance money.

The movie adaptation of “Before the Fact” by Francis Iles deviated from the original book’s plot, but its ambiguous conclusion encourages viewers to form their own interpretations, adding intrigue to the film.

Starring: Cary Grant, Joan Fontaine, Sir Cedric Hardwicke, Nigel Bruce, Dame May Whitty

Runtime: 1h 39m

Year: 1941

Where to stream: Hulu, YouTubeTV, SlingTV

10. The Lady Vanishes

The Lady Vanishes” is among Alfred Hitchcock’s last films produced in Britain before his relocation to Hollywood. Although some of his earlier works didn’t fare well, this particular movie has stood the test of time and remains popular. Originally based on Ethel Lina White’s novel “The Wheel Spins,” the story revolves around Iris (played by Margaret Lockwood), an English traveler who inadvertently strikes her head and later claims to have lost her elderly companion, Miss Froy (Dame May Whitty). The other train passengers question Iris’s sanity as they claim never to have seen the old woman she describes, while a doctor, Dr. Hartz (Paul Lukas), suggests it may be hallucinations caused by her head injury. Nevertheless, Iris persists in her search for Miss Froy and ultimately uncovers a significant conspiracy.

The story is quite captivating. It manages to maintain a high level of tension, but it also includes humorous scenes, such as an old woman swiftly darting into the forest, which adds to its charm. Additionally, it was Hitchcock’s initial production primarily set on a train, making it influential for future works, like the one coming up next in our list.

Starring: Margaret Lockwood, Michael Redgrave, Paul Lukas, Dame May Whitty

Runtime: 1h 37m

Year: 1938

Where to stream: Max, Hulu, Prime Video, YouTube TV, The Roku Channel, Tubi

9. Strangers on a Train

In “Strangers on a Train,” based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel, two individuals meet as the title suggests, on a train. One is Guy Haines (played by Farley Granger), who listens politely as Bruno Antony (Robert Walker) proposes during their chat that they trade murders – a plan he calls “Criss-cross!” If Guy kills Bruno’s father, Bruno will kill Guy’s unfaithful wife Miriam (Kasey Rogers). Despite finding the idea absurd, Guy dismisses it when they part ways on the train. However, things change when Bruno informs him that his wife has been murdered, forcing Guy to carry out his part of the bizarre agreement.

The film contains numerous memorable scenes, particularly the chilling image of Bruno murdering Miriam through her abandoned eyewear. However, it subtly explores themes of sexuality as well. By portraying both characters, Guy and Bruno, as sexually fluid, this movie was quite progressive for its era.

Featuring: Farley Granger, Robert Walker, Ruth Roman, Patricia Hitchcock, Leo G. Carroll, and Kasey Rogers (in the main roles)

The principal cast includes: Farley Granger, Robert Walker, Ruth Roman, Patricia Hitchcock, Leo G. Carroll, and Kasey Rogers

Or, more casually: This movie’s leading actors are Farley Granger, Robert Walker, Ruth Roman, Patricia Hitchcock, Leo G. Carroll, and Kasey Rogers

Each of these options aims to present the information in a natural and easy-to-read manner while maintaining clarity and accuracy.

Runtime: 1h 41m

Year: 1951

Where to stream: Tubi

8. To Catch a Thief

In simpler terms, “To Catch a Thief” is one of Alfred Hitchcock’s most delightful movies without any murder scenes. The main character, John Robie (played by Cary Grant), is an ex-cat burglar who finds himself under suspicion when a series of high-end thefts occur on the French Riviera. However, he didn’t commit these crimes. Instead, he teams up with American tourists Jesse Stevens (Jessie Royce Landis), her daughter Frances (Grace Kelly), and their insurance representative H.H. Hughson (John Williams) to catch the real thief.

To Catch a Thief” has less suspense compared to many of Hitchcock’s other films, but it’s not difficult to appreciate given the sizzling romance between Grant and Kelly and the film’s hilarious humor. If you’re looking for an expertly crafted piece of entertainment that isn’t too intense, this is the movie for you.

Featuring: Cary Grant, Grace Kelly, Jessie Royce Landis, John Williams, Charles Vanel, Brigitte Auber, and Jean Martinelli (in the main cast)

Or simply:
The principal actors are: Cary Grant, Grace Kelly, Jessie Royce Landis, John Williams, Charles Vanel, Brigitte Auber, and Jean Martinelli.

Runtime: 1h 46m

Year: 1955

Where to stream: YouTube TV

7. Shadow of a Doubt

Shadow of a Doubt,” directed by Hitchcock, stands as one of his masterpieces. This film holds a unique position, boasting a perfect 100% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes – the sole title to achieve this feat. Moreover, it was said to be Hitchcock’s favorite among all his works. The narrative centers around the Newton family, who experience joy upon their beloved uncle, Charlie (Joseph Cotten), visiting them in their small California town. Among them, niece Charlotte, affectionately known as “Charlie” (Teresa Wright), is particularly thrilled due to her boredom with the family’s everyday life. However, things take an unexpected turn when Uncle Charlie arrives and presents Charlotte with a ring engraved with initials other than his own. It transpires that Uncle Charlie is one of two prime suspects in the Merry Widow Murder case.

Unveiling Secrets”

This narrative explores the consequences of suspecting someone you hold dear. Unlike traditional ‘Suspicion’ stories, there’s no room for doubt here – Uncle Charlie is undeniably guilty. The tension doesn’t stem from the question of guilt; rather, it revolves around whether the family can uncover the truth. This compelling film masterfully portrays an intense conversation between Uncle Charlie and young Charlie, filled with suspense and anxiety.

Featuring: Teresa Wright, Joseph Cotten, Macdonald Carey, Patricia Collinge, Henry Travers, and Wallace Ford

Teresa Wright, Joseph Cotten, Macdonald Carey, Patricia Collinge, Henry Travers, and Wallace Ford in the main roles.

Runtime: 1h 48m

Year: 1943

Where to stream: Rent on major platforms

6. Rear Window

Rear Window,” directed by Hitchcock, is renowned for its intense suspense, with a significant factor being the protagonist, Jeff (played by James Stewart), who’s confined to a wheelchair due to a broken leg during recovery. With time on his hands, he passes it by peering into the lives of his neighbors through his large back window, despite not knowing them personally. As he observes their activities, his suspicions grow that one neighbor, Thorwald (Raymond Burr), may have murdered his wife.

In ‘Rear Window,’ inspired by Cornell Woolrich’s short story ‘It Had to Be Murder,’ the narrative unfolds primarily within Jeff’s immediate surroundings: his backyard and neighbors’ apartments, all visible from his window. This film showcases the art of creating a compelling story within tight spatial constraints. Moreover, it is Hitchcock’s work that most vividly explores the theme of voyeurism, as both the character Jeff and viewers find themselves drawn to the act of observing, and perhaps even more so, remaining unnoticed.

Starring: James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey, Thelma Ritter, Raymond Burr

Runtime: 1h 50m

Year: 1954

Where to stream: Rent on major platforms

5. North by Northwest

In the film “North by Northwest,” similar to “The 39 Steps,” Hitchcock masterfully explores the concept of mistaken identity. Here, Cary Grant plays Roger Thornhill, a Manhattan advertising executive falsely identified as George Kaplan, an undercover agent. This misunderstanding leads to his abduction and framing for a staged car accident. However, Thornhill manages to survive, only to find himself persistently chased across the country. Along the way, he encounters Eve Kendall (Eva Marie Saint), an agent connected to his kidnappers.

Despite occasional issues with pacing, “North by Northwest” boasts some truly memorable sequences, such as Cary Grant being chased by a crop duster and his subsequent attempt to elude capture atop Mount Rushmore – scenes that have become iconic in the world of entertainment. This timeless film is quintessential escapist viewing.

Starring: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason, Jessie Royce Landis

Runtime: 2h 16m

Year: 1959

Where to stream: Hulu, YouTube TV, Tubi, Sling TV

4. Psycho

Psycho,” directed by Hitchcock, is perhaps his most renowned work, and it’s not hard to see why. It stands out for its portrayal of a psychopath blending in with society, and even though the twist was revealed months before its premiere, it has remained iconic. The story initially revolves around Marion Crane (played by Janet Leigh), who encounters Norman Bates, the reserved owner of a motel where she takes shelter during a storm. However, the movie takes a turn when we discover that several individuals are investigating Marion’s disappearance, an event none of them anticipated.

The movie ‘Psycho,’ adapted from Robert Bloch’s novel, is renowned for its groundbreaking shower scene, a chilling, captivating, and aesthetically unique moment in cinematic history. This pivotal scene encapsulated the film’s central themes of peeping and violent sexuality, and had a profound impact on Janet Leigh, who felt forever changed after her role in this film. ‘Psycho’ explores the terror of discovering that an apparently innocent man is actually a cold-blooded killer, a revelation that few things can surpass in terms of sheer horror.

Starring: Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, John Gavin, Martin Balsam

Runtime: 1h 49m

Year: 1960

Where to stream: Rent on major platforms

3. Rebecca

“Rebecca,” directed by Hitchcock, was his inaugural production in Hollywood and the only one to receive an Academy Award for Best Picture. This film showcases early Hitchcock’s style effectively. The narrative, adapted from Daphne du Maurier’s novel of the same title, revolves around Maxim de Winter’s unnamed second wife (played by Joan Fontaine). She struggles to live up to the memory of Maxim’s first wife, Rebecca, who tragically passed away before the second Mrs. de Winter ever met Maxim. Although Rebecca herself is never shown in the movie, her legacy looms large over everyone residing in Maxim’s renowned estate, Manderley, particularly the housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers.

This romantic-thriller offers a lavish visual experience, despite having to accommodate the production guidelines of its era, notably in the manner of Rebecca’s death scene. However, it maintains an alluring mystery that makes it a captivating work of cinema. The film’s intense character study of its leading actress keeps viewers engrossed in her actions. Remarkably, it has been reverenced with a remake on Netflix, titled “Rebecca.” This cinematic masterpiece can be described as a beautiful and haunting production within the gothic genre.

Starring: Lawrence Olivier, Joan Fontaine, Judith Anderson, George Sanders

Runtime: 2h 10m

Year: 1940

Where to stream: Filmzie, Classic FilmTime, Free Classic Movies

2. Notorious

In this classic film, renowned actors Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman were cast opposite each other, both being major stars during that time period. Furthermore, it is widely recognized as a significant milestone in Alfred Hitchcock’s filmmaking career due to its intriguingly complex love triangle storyline, which was skillfully and intentionally directed.

The story unfolds as U.S. agent T.R. Devlin (Grant) encounters Alicia Huberman (Bergman), a Nazi sympathizer’s daughter residing in the United States post-World War II. Devlin persuades Alicia to infiltrate the Nazi community in Brazil. As Devlin and Alicia develop feelings for each other, he is tasked with orchestrating Alicia to win over Alex Sebastian, a prominent Nazi, who has affection for Alicia. The narrative then unfolds around Alicia, Devlin, and Sebastian as Alicia, under the impression that Devlin no longer cares for her, marries Sebastian while she and Devlin collaborate on spying on Sebastian.

This movie embodies Hitchcock’s unique mix of romantic tension, suspense, and dark wit, with hints of comedy scattered throughout. The narrative, which involves government officials manipulating Alicia into being Sebastian’s lover, was quite progressive for its era.

Starring: Ingrid Bergman, Cary Grant, Claude Rainds, Louis Calhern, Leopoldine Konstantin

Runtime: 1h 41m

Year: 1946

Where to stream: Tubi, or rent on Prime Video

1. Vertigo

The film “Vertigo,” derived from the novel “D’entre Les Morts” by Pierre Boileau and Thomas Narcejac, features James Stewart as Scottie, a detective who retires due to an intense fear of heights that manifests as vertigo. Later, he is hired by an acquaintance Gavin (Tom Helmore) to investigate the unusual behavior of his wife Madeleine (Kim Novak). This triggers a series of events that suggest Scottie’s increasing fixation on Madeleine—or what appears to be Madeleine.

The movie is widely recognized as Hitchcock’s magnum opus. It made it to the 9th spot on the American Film Institute’s list of top films in 2007 and claimed the first position in Sight & Sound’s 2012 poll for the greatest films ever made. Additionally, it was the pioneer in employing the frequently replicated dolly-zoom shot to depict Scottie’s vertigo. However, what truly sets it apart is its meticulously crafted exploration of obsession and control, with surreal visuals that serve to intensify a chilling narrative.

Starring: James Stewart, Kim Novak, Barbara Bel Geddes, Tom Helmore, Henry Jones

Runtime: 2h 9m

Year: 1958

Where to stream: Rent on major platforms

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2025-04-14 14:33