TEHRAN- The cinematheque of the Iranian Artists Forum (IAF) will review English film director Alfred Hitchcock’s 1955 movie “The Trouble with Harry” on Monday.

A review session will be organized after a screening in the Nasseri Hall of the forum at 5 pm by Iranian critic Shahpour Azimi.

"The Trouble with Harry” is a unique dark comedy mystery film that follows the residents of a small Vermont town who stumble upon the dead body of a man named Harry in the woods. The discovery sets off a chain of events as each character becomes tangled in the web of trying to figure out what to do with the body. Captain Albert Wiles, played by Edmund Gwenn, believes he is responsible for Harry's death and tries to conceal it from the other townspeople. However, the body keeps getting moved around and various characters become implicated in Harry's death, leading to a series of humorous and suspenseful encounters.

As the townspeople navigate the situation, they find themselves embroiled in mistaken identities and misunderstandings. Jennifer Rogers, played by Shirley MacLaine in her film debut, is Harry's estranged wife who initially appears indifferent to his death but later becomes entangled in the cover-up. Meanwhile, local artist Sam Marlowe, played by John Forsythe, finds himself unwittingly involved in disposing of Harry's body. The interaction between the characters and their attempts to hide their involvement in Harry's death led to a series of comedic situations that showcase Hitchcock's skill at blending suspense and humor.

Throughout the film, Hitchcock expertly plays with the audience's expectations and perceptions of the characters, leading to unexpected twists and turns. As the truth behind Harry's death is gradually revealed, the characters must confront their own motives and secrets, ultimately leading to a satisfying resolution. 

"The Trouble with Harry" stands out in Hitchcock's filmography as a departure from his typical suspense thrillers, offering a refreshing and entertaining take on the whodunnit genre with its blend of dark humor, quirky characters, and clever storytelling.

The film received mixed reviews upon its initial release in 1955. Some critics praised Alfred Hitchcock's unique blend of dark comedy and mystery elements, as well as the strong performances from the ensemble cast. However, others found the film to be too unconventional and lacking in the suspense that Hitchcock was known for at the time. Despite the initial mixed reception, the film has since been reevaluated and now enjoys a more favorable reputation among critics and audiences.

Over the years, "The Trouble with Harry" has garnered a cult following for its offbeat humor, quirky characters, and clever storytelling. The film's blend of suspenseful elements with comedic moments has been praised for its originality and subversion of genre conventions. Additionally, the film's picturesque Vermont setting and Bernard Herrmann's whimsical score have also been highlighted as standout features of the movie.

While "The Trouble with Harry" did not receive any major awards or nominations upon its release, it has since been recognized as a critical entry in Hitchcock's filmography. The film's enduring popularity and reputation as a hidden gem in Hitchcock's work have cemented its status as a cult classic. Fans of the film appreciate its unique blend of mystery and comedy, as well as its innovative approach to storytelling that showcases Hitchcock's versatility as a filmmaker.

SAB/