Movie Reviews: Rebecca

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

Title: Rebecca

Director: Ben Wheatley

Country and Year of Production: UK/USA, 2020

Running Time: 2 hrs 1 min

Main Cast:

Armie Hammer as Maxim de Winter

Kristin Scott Thomas as Mrs. Danvers

Keeley Hawes as Beatrice

Sam Riley as Jack Favell

Ann Dowd as Mrs. Van Hopper

GENRE & MUSIC

Genre: Mystery, Gothic Thriller, Drama

Music by: Clint Mansell

PLOT SUMMARY

The film tells the story of Maxim de Winter, a wealthy widower who lost his wife, Rebecca, after she supposedly drowned in the Atlantic Ocean. While in Monte Carlo, he meets a young, charming woman; they quickly marry and move to his grand estate, Manderley.

At Manderley, the second Mrs. de Winter’s life is hindered by the housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers, who remains obsessively devoted to Rebecca’s memory. After a shipwreck reveals Rebecca’s body, Maxim is accused of murder. Following a tense trial, he is ultimately found not guilty.

Initial Situation: Maxim de Winter meets his second wife in Monte Carlo.

Development: Rebecca’s presence is felt everywhere—in the furniture, the décor, and the minds of those at Manderley.

Conclusion: Manderley is destroyed by fire, and the second wife finally becomes an integral part of Maxim’s life.

NARRATIVE TECHNIQUES

Source Material: Based on the novel Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier.

Order: The events are narrated in chronological order.

Narrative Time: The story covers several months, though the backstory spans many years.

CHARACTERS

Protagonist: Maxim de Winter

Traits: Nobleman, traditionalist, and protective of his reputation.

Psychology: He is driven by a need to maintain appearances. He reveals he killed Rebecca because she threatened his legacy, and he feels no remorse for her death.

Antagonist: Rebecca

Traits: A beautiful and sophisticated woman who "haunts" the estate through her belongings and the memories of others.

Psychology: Manipulative, cruel, and hedonistic.

Other Main Characters

The Second Mrs. de Winter: Initially a shy and insecure figure, she eventually becomes Maxim’s strongest ally.

Mrs. Danvers: The "living ghost" of Rebecca, she is cold, intimidating, and vengeful.

FILM MESSAGE AND THEMES

The film explores the weight of the past and the struggle for identity. A central theme is the haunting nature of memory and how a person's legacy can overshadow the living. The connection between the second wife and Rebecca is almost dreamlike—a psychological battle between a "ghost" and a living woman.

PERSONAL COMMENTARY

Did you like the film? > "Yes, I did. It is a moving and atmospheric film. The music and acting are very engaging. The most enigmatic scene is Maxim’s sleepwalking when he enters Rebecca’s room. Other standout moments include the dog watching the curtain in the beach house and the way the housekeeper appears unexpectedly, which adds to the suspense."