Greta Gerwig has identified Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 spy thriller The 39 Steps as a perfect film, positioning herself as a top contender to helm its next remake. Known for her dynamic range, Gerwig’s admiration for this classic underscores her connection to its blend of suspense and humor, making the prospect of a Greta Gerwig spy remake highly anticipated among cinema enthusiasts.
Gerwig began her career within the mumblecore movement, where she honed her ability to portray nuanced and authentic characters. She expanded her reach through collaborations with filmmaker Noah Baumbach, whose works highlighted her talent in capturing emotional depth. Transitioning from acting to directing, she achieved major success with films like Lady Bird, Little Women, and most recently, Barbie, which elevated her standing in Hollywood.
What Makes “The 39 Steps” an Enduring Hitchcock Masterpiece
Among Gerwig’s favorite films, The 39 Steps stands out as a defining work in Alfred Hitchcock’s career. Released in 1935, this film is often regarded as the director’s first major success, introducing many of the suspenseful elements that would become his signature. Its story follows a Canadian traveler in the U.K. who becomes mistakenly accused of murder and entangled with spies, delivering a fast-paced narrative that was groundbreaking for its time.
The movie’s brisk shifts between locations highlight the 1930s’ evolving modes of travel and communication. Unlike earlier sound films with staged appearances, it presents an adventurous and humorous tone, which still resonates today. Hitchcock’s ability to balance thrilling suspense with lighthearted moments made this film a standout that has not diminished in impact nearly a century later.
Challenges in Capturing Hitchcock’s Spirit in Previous Remakes
Over the years, multiple adaptations of John Buchan’s novel The 39 Steps have attempted to replicate the success of Hitchcock’s film but have fallen short. While the story itself is from a book now in the public domain, Hitchcock’s version remains protected by copyright, complicating direct adaptation efforts.
The 1959 remake closely followed Hitchcock’s changes but lacked the original’s pace and energy, leading to unfavorable comparisons. Later versions from 1978 and 2008 aimed to stay truer to the novel, but critics deemed them dull and uninspired, missing the sharp blend of suspense and wit that defines the 1935 film.
These remakes often suffered from a lack of distinct vision. Hitchcock’s skill in refining literary works and infusing his own style helped his adaptation outlast its source material, securing its place as a timeless classic in suspense cinema.
Greta Gerwig: An Ideal Director for Revitalizing “The 39 Steps”
Given the enduring appeal of the original and the mixed reception of past remakes, a new version of The 39 Steps offers a chance to restore the story’s vitality. Greta Gerwig’s deep appreciation for Hitchcock’s film and her versatility as a filmmaker make her a compelling choice to lead this project.
Though a spy thriller might seem outside her typical style, Gerwig’s ability to pivot from intimate character studies like Lady Bird to the vibrant, large-scale storytelling of Barbie illustrates her adaptability. Her strength lies in crafting emotionally resonant narratives, and The 39 Steps calls for that sensitivity beneath its spy-themed surface.
Hitchcock’s portrayal of Richard Hannay, the film’s protagonist, blends suspense with a playful charm and human vulnerability—qualities Gerwig has shown she can bring forth in her characters. Her involvement could deliver a remake that balances thrilling espionage with heartfelt character moments.
As Gerwig moves toward directing the upcoming adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia, her career enters a new phase. Fans hope she will also find time for projects like a Greta Gerwig spy remake of The 39 Steps that pay homage to cinematic history while offering fresh perspective.
Main Cast of Hitchcock’s “The 39 Steps”
- Robert Donat as Hannay
- Madeleine Carroll as Pamela
- Lucie Mannheim as Miss Smith
- Godfrey Tearle as Professor Jordan
