Netflix’s adaptation of ‘Rebecca’ boasts stunning visuals and an incredibly attractive cast, making it a feast for the eyes even without sound. I went into this film without knowing much about the actors, but Armie Hammer certainly resembles a high-end action figure, while Lily James could easily be the gorgeous offspring of January Jones and Emilia Clarke. Eye candy aside, the real reason to watch this film—ideally with a friend or partner—is its fascinating backstory, which is perfect for film enthusiasts.
Overview of the Story
Here’s a brief overview: The story follows a young woman from a modest background who falls for Maxim de Winter, a dashing British aristocrat. After a whirlwind romance, they marry, and she moves to his grand estate, Manderly. Soon after her arrival, she encounters the stern Mrs. Danvers, who was the devoted housekeeper to the late first Mrs. de Winter, Rebecca. The shadow of Rebecca looms large over the estate, and her mysterious death is whispered about, creating an unsettling atmosphere. Everyone adored Rebecca, and the new Mrs. de Winter feels increasingly inadequate as she navigates her new life, especially as her husband grows more distant and secrets begin to surface.
Initial Impressions
When I watched ‘Rebecca’ without any context, my first impression was that it felt like a captivating novel filled with clever twists. However, I had many questions: How could this supposedly poor “lady’s companion” afford such elegant clothes? What is it about Maxim that appeals to her beyond his wealth? And why is the protagonist never named? Am I supposed to root for her in this twisted narrative?
Discovering the Backstory
To get answers, I turned to the internet. I discovered that ‘Rebecca’ is actually a novel by Daphne du Maurier, published in 1938, which quickly became a bestseller and sparked interest in a film adaptation. The history surrounding ‘Rebecca’ is one of the reasons I recommend it; it is a gem for film buffs. Alfred Hitchcock directed the original 1940 film, which was his U.S. debut and won the Academy Award for Best Picture. However, Hitchcock later distanced himself from it due to censorship issues imposed by the Hays Code, which governed American films from 1934 to 1968.
Comparing the Films
This is where it gets interesting when comparing the 1940 film to Ben Wheatley’s 2020 remake. The original script had to navigate strict codes that altered significant plot points, such as softening Rebecca’s death from a gunshot wound to an accident, impacting the story’s core.
Mrs. Danvers’ Complexity
Another intriguing detail I overlooked is Mrs. Danvers’ apparent unrequited love for Rebecca, which adds a layer of complexity to her character. I initially interpreted her obsession as simple loyalty, but it seems much deeper.
Final Thoughts
While the reviews for the remake have been harsh, with outlets like The New York Times and NPR criticizing it, I still found value in it. I prefer the original’s black-and-white aesthetic, and I appreciate the depth of the characters in the first film, even though the remake has its merits.
So, grab some popcorn, cozy up with a movie-loving friend, and enjoy both films, the book, and maybe even dive into the fascinating history of Hollywood’s censorship around sex, violence, and queerness. Happy viewing!
This article was originally published on October 30, 2020.