History and cinema lovers seem to only want to cite Psycho (1960) as Alfred Hitchcock's defining moment.  And, at this point, they will also mostly remember James Stewart as George Bailey from It's a Wonderful Life (1946) Let me be one of the few to let you know that they both have ENTIRE bodies of work that dwarf any director or actor working today.  Rear Window is a testament to their amazing creativity.

     After breaking his leg in the field, photographer L.B. 'Jeff' Jefferies (James Stewart) is confined to a wheelchair in his apartment, where he spends his days looking out his window and watching the daily routines of his neighbors.  But he begins to suspect foul play from one of them.

     Grace Kelly radiates as Lisa Fremont, Jeff's socialite girlfriend who is ever so ready to get hitched, much to Jeff's dismay.  Thelma Ritter also turns in a magnificently funny and pessimistic role as Stella, the helpful neighbor.  And, if you ever watched Perry Mason (1957-66), you'll recognize the neighbor across the way.

 

     What Makes This Movie Cool:  James Stewart.  He reminds me of a nicer, funnier version of my grandpa.  He's a personable curmudgeon busybody relegated to inactivity, who then succumbs to his own voyeuristic nature.  James Stewart always brought that humble world weariness to his roles, which gave all of his films gravitas.  We at Cool Movie Reviews like gravitas.