Jamaica Inn

Jamaica Inn is a thrilling adventure movie directed by one of the undisputed masters of cinematography, Alfred Hitchcock. Made in 1939, the film is based on the novel with the same name by Daphne du Maurier.

The film stars Maureen O'Hara, making her screen debut, as well as Charles Laughton, and Robert Newton. Not to be mistaken with the luxuriant resort, the Jamaica Inn refers to a dismal coastal inn notorious for being the gloomy headquarters of a band of rugged ship-wreckers in the late 19th Century Cornwall, England.

The film has a sinister yet captivating plot filled with suspense, making it a worthy addition to the Alfred Hitchcock repertoire. It revolves around the life of Mary (Maureen O'Hara), a young woman who moves to the isolated inn to live with her Aunt Patience after her mother passes away. Upon her arrival, she begins to notice a series of mysterious activities at the inn, putting her in a whirlwind of enigmas she feels compelled to unravel. She discovers the inn is not an ordinary resting place for wayfarers but a den of ruthless smugglers who provoke shipwrecks for profit.

Among the intriguing characters at the Jamaica Inn is Sir Humphrey Pengallan, portrayed impressively by Charles Laughton. The seemingly benign and eccentric squire of Pengallan Manor, he domineers every scene with his grandeur, hiding a multitude of secrets beneath his persona. It is Charles Laughton’s dominating performance that elevates every sequence he's a part of, adding an intriguing layer to the dark underlying theme.

Robert Newton, in his role as Jem Trehearne, gives a commendable performance, portraying a member of the smuggling gang who is falsely accused of embezzlement. He is integral to Mary's attempts to demystify the operations of the inn. His dynamic yet mysterious character plays off excellently against O'Hara's determined Mary and Laughton's multifaceted Pengallan.

Maureen O'Hara’s dynamite performance as Mary makes her the beloved darling of the movie. Remember, this is O'Hara's first major role! Yet, she manages to infuse in Mary a mix of vulnerability, grit, and determination that immediately endears her to the audience. Her fierce courage, combined with her innocent charm and beauty, creates a memorable character who navigates through the distress of the terrifying events around her.

The film’s mise-en-scene, designed with Hitchcock's signature stylization, creates a palpable menace and horror at every corner of the infamous Jamaica Inn. The extensive, murky exteriors of the rough Cornish coast embellished with haunting weather conditions accentuate the trepidation, making the viewers feel like they're a part of this surreal world.

Hitchcock's masterful storytelling makes Jamaica Inn an engaging film that stirs the viewers' sense of anticipation, keeping them on the edge of their seats. The way he showcases the blend of innocence, hostility, and deceit captures the essence of du Maurier’s novel, transforming it into a cinematographic masterpiece. His deftness in creating suspense, the sudden twists of betrayal and the throbbing climax underlay an array of human emotions, leaving an indelible impression on the viewers.

Jamaica Inn, though rich in Hitchcock’s distinctive shooting style and thematic elements prominent in his later works, maintains a unique identity. The compelling performances by the lead cast, the intriguing narrative, and the moody atmospheric elements make Jamaica Inn an unforgettable viewing experience that draws you into its ominous world.

Overall, Jamaica Inn remains an important piece of English cinematic history, another feather in the cap of Alfred Hitchcock's multi-faceted directorial repertoire. It is an essential viewing for all Hitchcock admirers and classic film enthusiasts wanting to trace his early British career. It’s a window into a world of suspense, mystery, and visually-striking cinema. While it may not be as well-known as some of Hitchcock's subsequent works, Jamaica Inn is a captivating watch for anyone interested in the evolution of the master's craft.