Book Review: "To Catch A Thief" by David Dodge & Alfred Hitchcock's Cinematic Delight
The Allure of a Classic
To Catch A Thief, originally penned by David Dodge, is a tantalizing blend of mystery and elegance, serving as the inspiration for Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film of the same name. This piece invites you to explore both the book and the film, shedding light on their distinctive charms and alluring differences.
An Unexpected Journey
As an avid reader, indulging in over 300 books a year, I often lament the fleeting time I have for cinematic experiences. However, with the reissue of To Catch A Thief by Poisoned Pen Press, alongside an exciting authorized sequel, I seized the opportunity to delve into two gems of crime fiction.
A Distinctive Duality
While both the novel and the film share the same name, they are strikingly distinct entities. Hitchcock does not merely adapt Dodge's bestseller; he pays homage to it. The film subtly alters key plot points, emphasizing the transformation of tone and character development.
In the novel, we meet John Robie, a jaded gentleman thief turned crook catcher at the relatively young age of 34, reflecting a sense of lost potential. In stark contrast, Cary Grant’s portrayal of John Robie in the film is that of a charismatic, confident 50-year-old. Both adaptations sparkle with romance and intrigue, yet the novel's ambiance is steeped in darker undertones and desperation, while Hitchcock's film flourishes with humor and panoramic vistas, enhanced by stunning cinematography.
The Captivating Plot
The Return of John Robie
The shared narrative kicks off with John Robie, once known as Le Chat, a notorious jewelry thief terrorizing the French Riviera. After a stint in prison due to betrayal, John, like many liberated criminals after WWII, holds hopes of a clean slate. However, his past resurfaces when a burglar, echoing his former methods, begins targeting the wealthy elite.
As the stakes rise, John finds himself pursued by the police, forcing him to adopt a subterfuge while mingling with the affluent society of Cannes. Here, he meets the lavishly adorned Mrs. Stevens and her astute daughter, Francie. While Mrs. Stevens flaunts her riches, Francie remains cautious, suspecting ulterior motives from those around her.
A Gripping Decision
Differing Endings: Ambiguity vs. Resolution
The crux of narrative tension lies in the divergence of endings between the novel and the film. Hitchcock, operating under the constraints of the Hayes Code, pivots the morally ambiguous conclusion of Dodge’s work into a more palatable romantic comedy finale. The movie leans into the fizzy glamour of the Riviera, creating a striking visual masterpiece complemented by Edith Head's opulent costumes.
While the film's shimmering allure captivates, it arguably sacrifices the depth and complexity of Dodge's novel, which embraces the shades of John's moral landscape with more nuance. Charles' ending can be viewed as a bittersweet resolution, leading us to ponder ethical dilemmas that make the original text resonate deeply.
A Mixed Yet Engaging Experience
Reflections on the Novel
Personally, I found the novel's willingness to explore John’s morally grey world more satisfying. However, the incessant endnotes of this latest edition, part of the Library of Congress Crime Classics series, became a distraction. While meant to enhance understanding, some annotations felt excessively detailed—or unnecessary altogether—interrupting the narrative flow. Glancing at the endnote describing Van Cleef & Arpels' expertise feels redundant after already establishing their status as purveyors of luxury.
Conclusion: A Love for Crime Media
Regardless of its minor flaws, my journey through To Catch A Thief proved a delightful escapade and I'm thrilled it’s being reintroduced alongside Mark O’Neill’s intriguing sequel, To Catch A Spy. I look forward to sharing my thoughts on that soon!
As this fantastic reissue captures your attention, consider revisiting the film that brought this story to the mainstream, making it eternally fashionable. Don't miss out!
Learn More or Order a Copy Here
Dive into the world of luxury theft and intrigue, where every turn promises glamour and danger! What are your thoughts on the book vs. film debate? Share below!
