North by Northwest and the Number 13

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The numerals on Eve's hotel room in Chicago add up to 13. Coincidence? I think not. Or, maybe not-not.

In Alfred Hitchcock's movies, even the slightest details can be illuminating. At the same time, a word of caution is in order when examining his or any others' films; even the most well-planned movies enjoy what are nothing more than happy coincidences. I just re-watched Alfred Hitchcock's North by Northwest the other night and couldn't help noticing a recurrence of the unlucky number thirteen.
  • Eve Kendall's car number on the 20th Century Limited is 3901 – the digits of which add up to 13.
  • Her room number in the Chicago hotel is 463, which adds up to 13.
  • When Thornhill rides in a police car after being "rescued" from the art auction, they are followed by a bus whose serial number, on prominent display in the squad car's rear window, is 1183. You know the math.
Curious, isn’t it? It probably means nothing. Or does it? I just post them as I see them.

Comments

Jennythenipper said…
It is possible that you have gone off the deep-end, my friend. I love it. The train to crazy town leaves on platform...13
May 10, 2010 at 2:29 PM
Jawa said…
I'm going to have to watch it again now. No chore though as it's my favourite Hitchcock. Unless it's The 39 Steps, or perhaps Rear Window. It's a tough call especially as there isn't one I don't like apart from maybe Under Capricorn. Even that has it's moments though.
May 10, 2010 at 3:22 PM
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