Vertigo (1958) Dir: Alfred Hitchcock: Practice Questions

At the beginning of Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo, what is John "Scottie" Ferguson's profession before his retirement due to acrophobia?

Scottie's psychological condition of acrophobia and vertigo is a recurring motif in Vertigo. Beyond its literal manifestation, what does this condition primarily symbolize in the context of the film's overarching themes?

In the final scene at the mission bell tower, what is the narrative significance of the nun's sudden appearance from the shadows?

Who hires Scottie to follow his wife, Madeleine, believing she is suffering from a psychological disturbance?

Scottie's obsession with recreating Madeleine through Judy is a central element of Vertigo. What specific item of Madeleine's does Scottie initially insist Judy buy to resemble her?

In the film Vertigo, what is the significance of the portrait of Carlotta Valdes in the museum scenes regarding Madeleine's behavior?

During the mission at San Juan Bautista, how does the camera movement (the 'dolly zoom') visually communicate Scottie's internal psychological state to the audience?

(a) Explain how Scottie Ferguson’s acrophobia is established in the opening sequence and how it functions as a plot device in the first half of the film.
(b) In what ways does Scottie’s physical vertigo serve as a metaphor for his psychological state as he becomes increasingly obsessed with Madeleine Elster?

While Vertigo focuses heavily on the relationship between Scottie and Madeleine/Judy, the character of Midge Wood provides a crucial contrast.

(a) Examine Midge’s role as the 'grounded' alternative to Madeleine. How does her apartment and visual presentation reflect her character?
(b) Analyze the scene where Midge paints herself as 'Carlotta' and explain why this leads to the ultimate severance of her relationship with Scottie.