The man who knew too much

[Violet]

[woofy]

Peter claimed that his English was so bad when he made this film that he had to learn his lines phonetically. I don't know if I can really believe that, however.
This film makes an interesting contrast with the later version starring James Stewart and Doris Day. I like bother versions, but I have to say I'm partial to any film with Doris Day in it.

[Mrs Vindecco]

I have to agree Woofy. Comparing his performance with the English version of "M" where it was obvious he was parroting, I think Peter must have learnt some English by the time TMWKTM was shot. He did like to tell his stories.

The remake has its merits. Hitchcock preferred it and Doris Day was a better actress than most people, including herself, thought. She does seem to cry a lot in her movies, which gets on my nerves after a while.

I do like this version, I love Hitchcock's British films, even though some appear creaky and stiff. The Man Who Knew Too Much is much better than Secret Agent, but not as good as The 39 Steps, in my opinion.

I think the problem with this version of The Man Who Knew Too Much , is sadly Leslie Banks who is just too stiff upper lipped. However, I do think he was very good in other films though especially in Went the Day Well? and Cottage to Let.

[Violet]

I just thought I'd mention that this film has recently been released by the Criterion Collection, in case anyone might be interested in purchasing it. 

It has been given a high definition restoration. The DVD apparently includes an extensive interview with Hitchcock from 1972, a booklet, an audio commentary and audio excerpts etc. I own the Criterion Collection version of M. These releases tend to be expensive but they usually do an amazing job. I might consider this version one day as I really love this film. I'm happy with the cheap version I have at the moment though. I have to say, I'm not so sure about the artwork. The first time I saw it I thought Peter was wearing headphones?! Perhaps it's just me



www.criterion.com/films/27999-the-man-who-knew-too-much