I watched this when it was broadcast on TV, early in 1979. I remember wondering why Hitch never reacted to anything and I recall Alma's endless tears. I hadn't seen any of his films yet (I was 14) but I certainly knew his name and reputation. If I could watch this again, it would be a treat. All the stars!
"You blame me for everything! 'Who put slippers in the dishwasher?' 'Who threw a cane at the TV?'"
It was available for sale on VHS tape a few years back, from the American Film Institute.
I don't know if it is still available. Maybe on e-bay?
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it was released on VHS and laser disc but as of now, not on dvd...indeed the ceremony was emotional but Hitch looked very old for the first time in his career and we could see the end was not far ...very sad and Bergman, Grant and Truffaut all reflect this on their faces ..worth seeing but an emotional hour for hitch lovers and film lovers ...this is genius talent and the heart aches to see it evaporating before our own eyes ...
share. . . but as of now, not on dvdI have (a shortened version) that came with my recently purchased "Psycho".
The version that was broadcast on TV (also released on VHS and Laserdisc) was an edited mix of two speeches -- the one Hitch made live on the night (where he remained sat down most of the time and looked very pale) and one recorded the night before (where he's stood up and has much more colour in his face).
According to one of the biographies (think it was "Darkless and Light"), there was some concern about whether or not Hitch would behave himself during the actual event. He'd famously accepted an award a few years earlier by simply saying "thank you" and walking off, much to the bemusement of the audience who were expecting a long acceptance speech!
At that time, he was suffering a lot from arthritis and would drink to help dull the constant pain. Also, Alma was frail and (I believe) was unable to stand (which is why she remains seated throughout).
Although Hitchcock appeared to remain emotionless throughout, the camera does catch him smiling a few times and, when Sean Connery stands to speak, Hitch appears to turn to Cary Grant and mouth the words "who's that?" -- or at least that what Sean thought he'd said!
You can find a transcript of his speech here: http://www.hitchcockwiki.com/page/1940
Dave
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