---
title: "Vertigo"
year: 1958
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/vertigo-1958"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 426
imdb_id: "tt0052357"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 128
community_rating: 8.1
vote_count: 6395
content_rating: "PG"
---

# Vertigo (1958) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/vertigo-1958

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

Vertigo is a 1958 film that follows the story of a retired San Francisco detective who struggles with acrophobia. The plot centers on his investigation into the unusual activities of the wife of an old acquaintance. As the detective observes the woman, he finds himself drawn into a complex situation that leads to a dangerous obsession. The narrative explores his psychological state as he monitors her movements throughout the city. The film depicts how his professional assignment evolves into a personal fixation, complicating his perception of reality and his mission. By focusing on the detective's internal conflict and his preoccupation with the subject of his investigation, the movie examines themes of obsession and identity. The production remains a notable entry in the suspense genre, highlighting the consequences of the detective's descent into his own fixations while attempting to uncover the truth behind the mysterious behavior he was hired to track. The film is recognized for its portrayal of a man grappling with his fears while becoming entangled in a life he was meant to observe from a distance.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A retired San Francisco detective investigates an old friend's wife while becoming dangerously obsessed."

### Why Watch
- directed by alfred hitchcock
- engulfs you in a whirlpool of terror and tension

### Caveats & Content Note
- features themes of obsession and terror
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains themes of terror, tension, and obsession.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: suspenseful, mysterious, romantic, tense

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | TCM | None | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | None | BBC iPlayer | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, CosmoGo |
| **Australia (AU)** | BINGE, Foxtel Now | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Alfred Hitchcock
- **Networks / Studios**: Paramount Pictures, Alfred J. Hitchcock Productions

## Key Cast Continuity

- **James Stewart** as *Det. John 'Scottie' Ferguson*
- **Kim Novak** as *Madeleine Elster / Judy Barton*
- **Barbara Bel Geddes** as *Marjorie 'Midge' Wood*
- **Tom Helmore** as *Gavin Elster*
- **Henry Jones** as *Coroner*
- **Raymond Bailey** as *Scottie's Doctor*
- **Ellen Corby** as *Manager of McKittrick Hotel*
- **Konstantin Shayne** as *Pop Leibel*
- **Lee Patrick** as *Car Owner Mistaken for Madeleine*
- **Bess Flowers** as *Diner at Ernie's (uncredited)*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was Vertigo released in the US?
It was released on 05/09/1958.

### Q: What genres is the film classified under?
It is classified under Mystery, Romance, and Thriller.

### Q: What is the runtime of the film?
The runtime is 2 hours and 8 minutes.

### Q: Who directed Vertigo?
The film was directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

### Q: What is the main character's profession?
The main character is a retired San Francisco detective.

---
*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*