I really think this movie deserves more credit than the reviewers on this site are giving it. Really, everyone should write a letter of apology to Mr. De Palma for their unnecessary comments on him "ripping-off" Hitchcock. Okay, we all know Hitchcock was one of the most talented directors that ever lived and his thrillers are almost all classics. He showed great camera movements, impressive shots, and terrific stories. So then a guy comes along and makes a film that matches the guys work, and what happens? He's a cheap rip-off. Okay, call me crazy, but if this guy made a movie that can even be compared to Hitchcock, doesn't that make it GOOD? If Hitchcock was so talented and this guy made something in his league, isn't making a comparison between them a COMPLIMENT? Not many people I know can make a film like Hitchcock if they tried. De Palma did, and he's cut down for it. Not right. First of all, I assume that from now on anyone that uses an artful approach to camerawork and comes up with some really neat ideas is going to be bombarded with calls of "Hitchcock wannabe." What, since the guy was so great no one can make a movie that matches his talent anymore? Every director HAS to steer clear of ANY Hitchcock shots and themes or the audience will crucify him? WHY? I found myself asking this. Clearly, De Palma made a great movie here with nice visual storytelling and remarkable shots. These were HIS OWN shots. Not Hitchcock's. Hitchcock never choreographed a straight razor murder in an elevator or half the stuff De Palma directs so well here, so where did he rip it off from? I liked this movie because it was very riveting, flowed nicely, and often kept me on my seat in suspense. The gore was plentiful (another thing Hitchcock DIDN'T do) and the only time anything in here mirrors Hitchcock are the times when the first victim is killed and the revelations at the end. And even then, they're loosely based. Basically, I think De Palma delivered a great movie, full of great things, only to be shot down by devout followers of The Master who probably can't bear to face the fact that someone else out there has talent to give Hitchcock a run for his money. Sounds like someone's jealous to me. I hope this film gets more widely appreciated and seen as time goes by. Then maybe all the newer generations who didn't grow up with Hitchcock will stop cutting it down. Time may be the only justice to this great movie.
Review of Dressed to Kill
