Hitchcock's 'The Birds' Turns 60 Years Old

Released in 1963, Alfred Hitchcock'sThe Birds has been hailed as a classic of the horror genre, and it continues to captivate audiences with its innovative special effects, psychological suspense, and thought-provoking themes. Now, at sixty years old, we're still unpacking what made this movie so glorious. 

Let's explore what makes The Birds such a special film, and why it has endured as a cinematic masterpiece for six decades.

Check out this video from Fear: The Home Of Horror and let's talk after the jump. 

What Made Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds Special? 

The Birds is considered one of Alfred Hitchcock's most innovative and unique films for several reasons. First and foremost, it is one of the earliest examples of a horror film that used natural phenomena, such as birds, to create terror. Unlike many other horror films of the time, The Birds did not rely on supernatural monsters or villains. Instead, it used the everyday creatures we see around us to create an atmosphere of suspense and horror.

Hitchcock used a combination of mechanical birds, live birds, and rear projection to create the illusion of birds attacking humans. This was a groundbreaking approach to special effects, and it had never been seen before in a film. The result was a truly terrifying portrayal of nature gone awry.

Throughout the film, he builds tension and fear in the audience through the use of music, editing, and pacing. The film's soundtrack, composed by Bernard Herrmann, is a masterpiece in its own right with its haunting bird calls and ominous orchestration. Hitchcock also uses his trademark camera techniques, such as long takes and tracking shots, to create a sense of unease and disorientation.

The Birds also contains social commentary on the unpredictability of nature and the dangers of man's interference with the natural world. The film can be interpreted as a warning against the hubris of humanity and a call for greater respect for the environment.

Alfred Hitchcock bts in 'The Birds'Credit: Universal Pictures

Why Do We Still Care About The Birds?

Whether or not you think birds are government spy cameras or real living organisms, you have to admit that The Birds has solidified its place in cinema history. Although we never find out why the titular birds are attacking Bodega Bay, Hitchcock's The Birds is a classic horror film is considered special for several reasons:

1. Innovative Use of Special Effects: Hitchcock used special effects in a unique way that had never been seen before. He combined mechanical birds, live birds, and rear projection to create the illusion of birds attacking humans.

2. Psychological Suspense: Hitchcock was a master of psychological suspense, and The Birds is a prime example of his talent. Throughout the film, he builds tension and fear in the audience through the use of music, editing, and pacing.

3. Non-Traditional Horror Film: Instead of relying on supernatural monsters or serial killers, Hitchcock uses birds, a common and seemingly harmless creature, to create terror. Scary events are shot in daylight with creatures building in number before swarming. 

4. Social Commentary: Hitchcock was known for using his films to comment on society, and The Birds is no exception. The film can be interpreted as a commentary on the unpredictability of nature and the dangers of man's interference with the natural world.

5. Cinematic Artistry: The Birds is a visually stunning film. Hitchcock uses innovative camera techniques, such as long takes and tracking shots, to create a sense of unease and disorientation.

The Birds remains a testament to the brilliance of Alfred Hitchcock and his contribution to the art of cinema. Through its innovative use of special effects, psychological suspense, and social commentary, this film has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences today. Whether you are a fan of horror films or simply appreciate great filmmaking, the movie is a must-see for anyone who loves cinema.

Let me know what you think in the comments. 

Source: Fear: The Home Of Horror