A Case of Mistaken Identity Through Parallels in 'North by Northwest' Olivia F. Vega 12th Grade

In Alfred Hitchcock’s 1959 film, North by Northwest, the theme of mistaken identity is prevalent. The audience first views the main character, Roger Thornhill, as an ordinary, slightly self-absorbed city dweller, who is completely unprepared for the dangers of his situation when he is thrust into the role of George Kaplan, an elusive government spy. The film tracks the development of Roger’s changing identity through the use of repeated parallels, placing Roger in isolation and contrasting his initial rejection of his identity against his eventual acceptance of Kaplan’s daring “agent” persona during the final climactic scene. The film conveys the malleable nature of human identity, indicating that certain experiences can enhance a person’s internal determination.

Roger is introduced as a businessman who makes his living from advertising and exudes a sense of charming dishonesty. In the opening scene with his secretary it is revealed that Roger is disconnected from his current relationships with women and willing to tell lies for his own convenience, such as catching the first cab he hails. The truth seems an optional aspect of life for Roger, to be used only when it should suit his needs. However, a shift occurs, following his...