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Title: Good Hitchcock film, with interesting extras
Review: Although this doesn't rank as high as Hitchcock's greatest films, such as North by Northwest, Vertigo, or Rear Window--The 39 Steps has an engaging story that keeps the audience moving along with its brisk pace.The movie introduces many classic Hitchcock staples. Fans will see many similarities to later works. Most notable is the classic Hitchcock theme of the wrongfully accused hero.Hitchcock, as always, demonstrates a mastery of the visual medium; the film is rich with story telling enabled through skillful use of the camera, rather using dialog as a crutch.The DVD includes a so-so documentary that surveys his early work in British film. A running commentary is also available, that highlights many fascinating elements. Overall, the DVD translation fulfills what I would expect from Criterion--top notch.
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