Strangers on a Train is an exhilarating thriller that exemplifies Alfred Hitchcock's mastery over narrative tension and character development. Based on Patricia Highsmith's novel, this gripping film follows two strangers—tennis player Guy Haines (Farley Granger) and eccentric playboy Bruno Antony (Robert Walker)—who meet aboard a train and discuss exchanging murders to avoid suspicion for their respective motives. As events unfold and the line between reality and fantasy blur, Strangers on a Train delivers an intense, fast-paced experience that keeps viewers enthralled until its nail-biting conclusion. With its exceptional performances and intricately woven plot, this film is a testament to Hitchcock's enduring influence as the "Master of Suspense."
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#11A Streetcar Named Desire

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Literally Hitchcockian Studying Master of Suspense Alfred Hitchcock, whose six-decade career is one of the most influential in the history of filmmaking.

# Alfred Hitchcock's Best Movies

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Updated September 5, 202440.8K views55 items

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This list of Alfred Hitchcock's best movies proves that he was one of the top directors of all time. Active from the silent era up until his death in 1980, Hitchcock has appeared in plenty of blockbusters and critically-acclaimed movies, earning awards and accolades along the way. His highest grossing movies have been well-received at the box office. His top 10 movies tend to be thrillers but which one should be deemed the very best? This list needs your votes to help decide the best film's of Alfred Hitchcock's career with their year listed as well.

Alfred Hitchcock began working during the silent film era and transitioned to sound for his tenth film, Blackmail. Throughout the 1930s and ‘40s, Hitchcock produced a number of films, including World War II propaganda films for the Free French government. Following that period, Hitchcock hit his stride with classics in the 1950s. You'll find his best films ordered by their popularity, their ranking determine votes from users like you.

During this time, he made his iconic thriller movies Rear Window, Vertigo, and more. Then in 1960, he released his best-known film, Psycho. Following that, his output declined due to health issues. His last film was 1976’s Family Plot, which received positive critic reviews. He also had many on-screen appearances in his and other director’s film, and is right up there with stars like Orson Welles and John Huston in terms of fame and success.

So what are the best Alfred Hitchcock movies of all time? Is it Psycho or Rear Window? Please note that these are the best, not just the scariest Hitchcock movies. See what fans have ranked as their favorite Alfred Hitchcock movies below. Movie trailers have been included below if you want a preview of the film. If you think the best Hitchcock film isn't at the top, then vote it up.

Alfred Hitchcock was in some really popular films, and is right up there with stars like Orson Welles and John Huston in terms of fame and success.

Most divisive: Young and Innocent

Over 2.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Best Movies of Alfred Hitchcock



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1

## Rear Window

James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey

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1,424 votes

A masterclass in suspense and visual storytelling, Rear Window showcases Alfred Hitchcock's brilliance as a filmmaker. This classic tale of voyeurism and murder takes place almost entirely within the confines of an apartment complex, highlighting the director's exceptional ability to create tension and intrigue within limited physical space. The film stars James Stewart as a wheelchair-bound photographer who becomes convinced that one of his neighbors has committed murder. As he delves deeper into the mystery with the help of his girlfriend (played by Grace Kelly), they find themselves drawn into a dangerous game with life-or-death consequences. Expertly paced, superbly acted, and featuring stunning cinematography that immerses viewers in its claustrophobic setting, Rear Window is undeniably among Hitchcock's greatest achievements.



2

## Psycho

Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles

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1,331 votes

Psycho revolutionized both horror films and audience expectations upon its release in 1960, forever cementing Alfred Hitchcock's legacy as the "Master of Suspense." With its unrelenting tension, shocking twists, and unforgettable score by Bernard Herrmann, Psycho pushed boundaries like never before. The movie follows Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) as she steals money from her employer and subsequently checks into a seemingly innocent motel run by Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins). However, it quickly becomes apparent that all is not what it seems at this eerie establishment. Featuring one of cinema's most iconic scenes – the infamous shower scene – Psycho remains a true masterpiece whose influence can still be felt today.

- Released: 1960

- Directed by: Alfred Hitchcock

- Also ranks #9 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time

- Also ranks #343 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies

- Also ranks #6 onThe Best Horror Movies Based On True Stories, Ranked



3

## Vertigo

James Stewart, Kim Novak, Barbara Bel Geddes

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1,369 votes

Vertigo stands out among Alfred Hitchcock's esteemed filmography for its haunting exploration of obsession and identity. This psychological thriller follows John "Scottie" Ferguson (James Stewart), a retired detective suffering from acrophobia who becomes increasingly fixated on a woman named Madeleine (Kim Novak). As Scottie spirals further into his dark desires and compulsions, reality blurs with illusion until reaching a shocking conclusion. Hitchcock's innovative use of color, cinematography, and the hypnotic score by Bernard Herrmann elevates Vertigo from a simple narrative to an immersive exploration of human frailty and the depths we will go to attain our desires. This film is widely regarded as one of the director's most complex and enigmatic works, providing ample material for both enjoyment and analysis in equal measure.



4

## North by Northwest

Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason

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1,285 votes

In North by Northwest, Alfred Hitchcock delivers a thrilling adventure filled with espionage, romance, and iconic set pieces that remain etched in cinematic history. Cary Grant stars as Roger Thornhill, a man mistaken for a spy who becomes embroiled in a race against time to clear his name while evading dangerous assassins. Co-starring Eva Marie Saint as the enigmatic femme fatale and James Mason as the villainous mastermind, this fast-paced action thriller showcases Hitchcock's adeptness at crafting engaging characters while maintaining relentless tension throughout. From its gripping opening to the exhilarating climax atop Mount Rushmore, North by Northwest remains an enduring classic that exemplifies Hitchcock's skill as a consummate storyteller.

- Released: 1959

- Directed by: Alfred Hitchcock

- Also ranks #98 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time

- Also ranks #612 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies

- Also ranks #75 onThe Greatest Movie Themes



5

## Dial M for Murder

Ray Milland, Grace Kelly, Bob Cummings

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900 votes

Dial M for Murder is a taut and suspenseful crime thriller that stands among Alfred Hitchcock's finest works. The film follows ex-tennis player Tony Wendice (Ray Milland) as he meticulously plots the perfect murder of his unfaithful wife Margot (Grace Kelly). However, when his plan goes awry, Tony must adapt his scheme in real-time to avoid detection from both his wife and an investigating detective (played by John Williams). Adapted from Frederick Knott's stage play of the same name, Dial M for Murder displays Hitchcock's penchant for weaving intricate narratives while keeping audiences riveted until its startling conclusion. With its well-crafted characters and outstanding performances from its lead actors, this spellbinding film is a must-see for any Hitchcock enthusiast.



6

## Strangers on a Train

Robert Walker, Farley Granger, Ruth Roman

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844 votes

Strangers on a Train is an exhilarating thriller that exemplifies Alfred Hitchcock's mastery over narrative tension and character development. Based on Patricia Highsmith's novel, this gripping film follows two strangers—tennis player Guy Haines (Farley Granger) and eccentric playboy Bruno Antony (Robert Walker)—who meet aboard a train and discuss exchanging murders to avoid suspicion for their respective motives. As events unfold and the line between reality and fantasy blur, Strangers on a Train delivers an intense, fast-paced experience that keeps viewers enthralled until its nail-biting conclusion. With its exceptional performances and intricately woven plot, this film is a testament to Hitchcock's enduring influence as the "Master of Suspense."



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