Within this essay, I’d like to touch upon the fact that Vertigo works as a social commentary on human desire, specifically touching upon the philosophies of Rene Girard. The sequence I believe would be best for thorough analysis would be the instance where Judy lies her head upon Scottie’s desk, sobbing due to the realization that Scottie cannot love her without holding the appearance of late Madelein Elster. The sequence will begin with Judy’s head on his desk as Scottie pours himself a drink and end with Judy and Scottie sitting by the fire place. Within this sequence, discuss a variegated amount of film elements (misc-en-scene, sound, editing, etc.). All such elements will work to support my argument of the futility of human desire as well as the consumerist qualities we attain.
