After her mother dies, young Mary (Maureen O’Hara) travels to the notorious Jamaica Inn to live with her aunt (Marie Ney). She discovers that something sinister goes on there and confides in her new friend, aristocrat Sir Humphrey (Charles Laughton).
Jamaica Inn was based on the novel by Daphne du Maurier, who also penned Rebecca and The Birds. Perhaps because it's a period piece, it didn't feel much like a Hitchcock film. Because the notoriously difficult Laughton was a co-producer, Hitch said he didn't so much direct it as referee it.
This was the first major role for 18 year old O’Hara, and the first after dropping her real last name, FitzSimons. Her cruel uncle Joss was played by Leslie Banks. Scaring from World War I facilitated his casting in villainous roles. I have yet to notice it. Laughton was excellent in the Charles Laughton role.
Jamaica Inn, after you acclimate to the expressive acting, is a better than fair watch. Perhaps not well remembered today, it still entertains. AMRU 3.5.
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