The Life of Hollywood Legend Kim Novak

When Vertigo is released in 1958, critical response is divided. Some reviewers praise the film’s ambition, while others find it slow or confusing, and it does not rank among Hitchcock’s major commercial successes at the time.

For Novak, the reception is disappointing given the demands of the role. The film does not immediately elevate her career, and its importance will only be recognized many years later.