Having helped shape modern cinema, Alfred Hitchcock is revered as one of the most prolific directors in history and this year, his birthday falls on Friday the 13th. That date couldn’t be more fitting for the Master of Suspense. Hitchcock released over 50 films in his 60-year career amassing a catalog of classics such as “Rear Window,” “Psycho,” “The Birds,” “Marnie,” “North by Northwest,” “Vertigo,” “The Man Who Knew Too Much,” and “Rebecca.” Although he never won a Best Director Oscar, Hitchcock cemented his place as a cinematic genius. Beyond the virtuosic camera techniques that gave audiences unique points of view and ways of identifying with his characters (even when they’re doing terrible things), Hitchcock was known for the suspenseful themes with which he was seemingly obsessed. He enjoyed putting the average man in bizarre situations and scaring audiences into believing that the same thing could happen to them. Another one of Hitchcock’s biggest trademarks: he made cameos in his own films. His movie cameos to his purposefully mundane TV guest appearances, and his somewhat mysterious life, transformed Hitchcock into a celebrity figure in his own right.
To celebrate the English director’s birthday, we found some of the best Hitchcock merchandise to buy right now. Below, find a roundup of items that are perfect for Hitchcock fans. And for more cinema-related shopping guides, check out the best gifts for movie lovers.
Classic Mystery Jigsaw Puzzle
If you’ve been spending more time at home lately, here’s an activity that will keep you occupied for a few hours (it also doubles as a good game night activity). The 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle is its own mystery, complete with clues hidden within the puzzle pieces. To start, users read a booklet about an obsessed Hitchcock fan before assembling the puzzle and unlocking clues to solve the mystery.
“The Encyclopedia of Alfred Hitchcock” by Stephen Whitty
Movie critic Stephen Whitty offers up a detailed overview of Hitchcock’s work in “The Alfred Hitchcock Encyclopedia.” This comprehensive guide features in-depth critical entries on each of Hitchcock’s major films, in addition to biographical essays on his most frequent collaborators, and discussions of significant themes in his work. Whitty’s primary source was interviews that he conducted with Hitchcock’s collaborators and family, including screenwriter Jay Presson Allen (“Marnie”), Eva Marie Saint (“North by Northwest”) and Kim Novak (“Vertigo”), Farley Granger (“Strangers on a Train”), Norman Lloyd (“Saboteur”), and his daughter Pat, who just died this week (“Stage Fright,” “Psycho”).
Alfred Hitchcock Classic Silhouette Coaster Set
These handmade coasters make a great gift or conversation starter. Each coaster is carefully designed utilizing laser engraving over walnut hardwood (the coasters are slightly larger than a 3” circle, according to the seller). The set features four of Hitchcock’s iconic films (“Rear Window,” “Vertigo,” “Psycho,” “The Birds”) depicted as thoughts in his mind with his classic silhouette featured on the coaster. The accompanying holder has engraving on the base that names the four films, and the year they were released.
Alfred Hitchcock Limited Edition Bobblehead
The intricately-designed Alfred Hitchcock limited edition black-and-white bobblehead makes a great desk accessory for cinephiles. The 4.25″ figurine showcases Hitchcock in his signature black suit and skinny tie.
Parker Brothers Clue Board Game, Alfred Hitchcock Edition
In 1999, Clue released a special edition Hitchcock-themed board game in celebration of his centennial. The game centers around six characters (just like in regular Clue games) who are invited to appear in a Hitchcock film but a murder mystery unfolds instead. Besides the specially designed game board, the box includes six suspect tokens, six weapons, a confidential case file, and a detective notepad.
Alfred Hitchcock Shower Curtain
Another unique but useful gift idea, this 71” x 74″ polyester shower curtain shows Hitchcock’s iconic image recreated in the titles of his movies. The shower curtain has 12” button holes at the top (rings not included), and it’s machine washable. Want more Hitchcock decor? Make it a set with a Hitchcock duvet cover.
“Alfred Hitchcock: The Complete Films” by Paul Duncan
A dream guide for film buffs interested in learning more about Hitchcock’s early life and career, “Alfred Hitchcock: The Complete Films” explores Hitchcock’s movies from the silent era all the way up to his final film, “Family Plot,” in 1976. The book also features a collection of essays illuminating Hitchcock’s onscreen suspense tactics, photos of his work, and illustrations of his infamous movie cameos.
Alfred Hitchcock: The Ultimate Collection Blu-Ray Box Set
This box set collection is a great way to keep all of your favorite Hitchcock films in one place. “Alfred Hitchcock: The Ultimate Collection” Blu-ray box set features 15 legendary Hitchcock films including “North by Northwest,” “Rear Window,” “Psycho,” “The Birds,” and “Vertigo.” If you’re looking for something a little cheaper, The Alfred Hitchcock Classic Collection has many of the essential movies from Hitchcock’s catalog and a special edition of “Psycho.”
Alfred Hitchcock “The Birds” Metal Print
Rounding out the list, the Alfred Hitchcock metal print is another cool item that pays homage to the English director’s infamous silhouette. This particular design is inspired by “The Birds” but the metal prints are also available in other Hitchcockian designs including “Vertigo,” and “Dial M for Murder” themes. The print comes in different sizes, ranging from extra-small (9.9” x 18” print pictured above) to extra-large (22” x 40”). Sign Up: Stay on top of the latest breaking film and TV news! Sign up for our Email Newsletters here.
