Rope (1948)

I re-watched Rope (15 years since that last viewing!) and it was even better than I remembered it to be. It has an impeccable sense for style, timing and suspension. Of course, what makes Rope rather peculiar is its lack of obvious cuts - it is as if the film was shot in one take (which, of course, is not true). The story is an elusive one. Brandon and Philip hauls the body of their friend David into an antique chest: we are immediately served the knowledge that they have killed him. They brag and speak about their bravado. Next, we see them fixing a dinner party, the center of which is the same chest in which the dead friend is hidden. They do it for the thrills. Guests arrive, uncomfortable moments ensue as it is clear that our hosts have one or two plans in their minds. Rupert, Brandon's mentor, engages with the host in a discussion about killing of superfluous people. One of the guests, David's father, is angered by such frivolous talk. Philip drinks and gets more and more nervous by every minute. David's girlfriend is worried by his absence. --- We know from the start that this cannot end well. The film is a chilling, strange little thing. The interiors are matched by the grand skyline outside - we see time pass by in the changes of light. Towards the end of the film, the room bathes in eerie neon light. - A brilliant move! The absence of breaks makes the story seem even more suspenseful than what it might otherwise be.