September 2: Rear Window (1954)

Milestone Years

• 70th Anniversary: September 2, 2024
• 75th Anniversary: September 2, 2029
• 100th Anniversary: September 2, 2054

Inspiration Behind the Movie

Alfred Hitchcock’s *Rear Window* was inspired by Cornell Woolrich’s 1942 short story “It Had to Be Murder.” Hitchcock also drew from real-life urban voyeurism and the idea of neighbors unknowingly observing or being observed, which he expanded into a taut psychological thriller about suspicion, isolation, and moral ambiguity.

You Might Not Know

• The entire Greenwich Village courtyard was a massive indoor set built at Paramount Studios, complete with running water and electricity.
• Hitchcock filmed nearly the entire movie from one set perspective to reflect the main character’s point of view.
• James Stewart’s character was based in part on real-life war photographers recovering from trauma and injury.
• Grace Kelly wore costumes designed by legendary Hollywood designer Edith Head, helping define her iconic screen presence.
• Hitchcock made his signature cameo winding a clock in the songwriter’s apartment.

Food Ideas

• Manhattan-style clam chowder to nod to the film’s New York setting
• “L.B. Jefferies” grilled cheese sandwiches—comfort food for a stuck-at-home detective
• Grace Kelly-inspired champagne and finger sandwiches
• Courtyard-themed cupcakes with miniature decorations of windows and neighbors
• Coffee and donuts, the classic stakeout snack

Ways to Celebrate

• Host a Hitchcock movie marathon with *Rear Window* as the main feature
• Create a neighborhood mystery game inspired by the film’s plot
• Design a themed photo booth with props like binoculars and leg casts
• Discuss ethical voyeurism and privacy in a post-screening chat
• Recreate Grace Kelly’s elegant fashion looks for a themed costume night

Filming Locations

Though set in Greenwich Village, New York, *Rear Window* was filmed entirely on a custom-built set at Paramount Studios in Hollywood. The massive set was one of the largest ever constructed at the time and allowed for precise control over lighting and sound. Today, it remains one of the most celebrated examples of studio set design in cinema history.