Foreign Correspondent (1940)

About Foreign Correspondent

Directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, "Foreign Correspondent" is an American thriller film released in 1940. The movie maintains a dramatic suspense throughout with Hitchcock's signature storytelling style. The plot revolves around Johnny Jones, a crime reporter who takes up the mantle of a foreign correspondent to uncover a spy ring in Europe on the eve of World War II.

Making / Production

Under the United Artists banner, the production of "Foreign Correspondent" was set into motion. Primarily filmed in Hollywood with some scenes shot in London and Amsterdam, the movie was noted for its meticulous attention to detail, especially during the airplane crash sequence which is still considered one of Hitchcock's most accomplished technical achievements.

Actors

• Joel McCrea as Johnny Jones/Huntley Haverstock - He is the lead actor who plays the fearless and energetic crime reporter turned foreign correspondent. McCrea's natural performance added authenticity to his character.
• Laraine Day as Carol Fisher - She plays the clever and charming love interest of Jones, whose father is a prominent member of the peace organisation. Day delivered a performance full of poise and charm.
• Herbert Marshall as Stephen Fisher - He plays a dual role as Carol's father and the head of a spy organization. Marshall perfectly portrayed the dichotomy of his character.
• George Sanders as Scott Ffolliott - His character provides a light-hearted contrast to the heavy political plot. Sander's witty portrayal of the character added much-needed comic relief.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was in production when World War II started, Hitchcock used this as an opportunity to include strategic statements against neutrality towards the Nazis.
• It was one of the few Hitchcock films that was heavily influenced by topical events.

Awards

Foreign Correspondent was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Special Effects, and Best Supporting Actor (Albert Bassermann).

Quotes

• Haverstock: "I'm not as dumb as you look."
• Fisher: "I know that the people are on our side, not because they understand us, but because they detest you."

Music

Scored by Alfred Newman, the music of "Foreign Correspondent" is an apt reflection of the suspense and thrills the movie offers. Newman's score gives the movie an almost haunting and shadowy ambiance that is synonymously identified with Hitchcock's style of storytelling.

Soundtrack

• "Love in the Netherlands"
• "The Plane Crash"
• "The Pursuit"
• "The Memory Waltz"