The 39 Steps
Handcuffed to the girl who double-crossed him
Overview
Richard Hanney has a rude awakening when a glamorous female spy falls into his bed - with a knife in her back. Having a bit of trouble explaining it all to Scotland Yard, he heads for the hills of Scotland to try to clear his name by locating the spy ring known as The 39 Steps.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Released during the height of Britain's spy mania, 'The 39 Steps' reflects the nation's paranoia about German spies infiltrating England leading up to WWII.
- The film is a classic example of the British thriller genre, showcasing suspense and adventure.
- Hitchcock's innovative storytelling techniques, including the use of humor in a serious context, are on display.
- The charismatic performance by Robert Donat as Richard Hannay makes for an engaging lead character.
- The movie features a complex plot filled with espionage and political intrigue.
Fun Facts
- 'The 39 Steps' was adapted from a stage play and is considered one of the most successful plays-to-film adaptations in British cinema history.
- The iconic train chase scene is one of the longest and most elaborate sequences ever filmed during that era.
- The title 'The 39 Steps' originates from a phrase used by spies, referring to an important military document.
Available Languages
English
US
Title:
"Handcuffed to the girl who double-crossed him"
Deutsch
DE
Title: Die 39 Stufen
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Français
FR
Title: Les 39 Marches
"Menotté à la fille qu'il a croisé"
Italiano
IT
Title: Il club dei 39
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Español
ES
Title: 39 escalones
"Esposado a la chica que lo traicionó"
普通话
CN
Title: 三十九级台阶
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Where to Watch
Cast
Crew
Reviews
A simply wonderful, sophisticated, adaptation of John Buchan's book of wartime espionage and murder. Robert Donat ("Hannay") goes to the theatre to see a man with an incredible memory; but instead becomes embroiled in a tale of cloak-and-dagger antics that see him accused of murder and forced to flee to the highlands of Scotland. It is here that he encounters a sceptical Madeleine Carroll and together they try to get to the bottom of this clever mystery. The dark and eerie Scottish scenery adds to the suspense and there are two good cameos from Peggy Ashcroft and John Laurie too. I found the ending let this down a little - but it is still a gripping hour and half to watch under the expert hand of Alfred Hitchcock.
Oscar Awards
Wins
Haven't Won A Oscar
Nominations
Haven't Nominated for Oscar
Media
Trailer
Three Reasons: The 39 Steps
Teaser
The 39 Steps (1935) - Alfred Hitchcock - Trailer