The Lady Vanishes (U)

Iris Henderson, an English tourist travelling across Europe, has her journey stalled when an avalanche blocks the railway line. Stranded with her fellow passengers, Iris bonds with Miss Froy, an elderly governess, and clashes with Gilbert Redman, a charismatic, clarinet-playing ethnomusicologist.

After falling asleep on the train, Iris awakens to find Miss Froy missing. While those around her claim to have never seen Miss Froy, Iris recruits Gilbert to help her solve whatever sinister mystery has befallen her friend.

The final masterpiece of Hitchcock’s British era, The Lady Vanishes is an apt sign-off from the director before his journey stateside. Eccentrically British, breathlessly plotted and impeccably performed, this train-set romp is one of Hitchcock’s greatest thrill rides.