The Mistress of Menace and the Master of Suspense

Presented by John Francis

Daphne Du Maurier and Alfred Hitchcock had much in common. Du Maurier is sometimes described as a romantic novelist, but this is completely misleading. Like Hitchcock, she dealt with themes of loneliness, gender, fear, suspense and gothic imagery. They both built compelling and complex emotional landscapes for their characters. Although they never met, the pair produced three cultural landmarks of the 20th century: Jamaica Inn, Rebecca and The Birds`. In this lecture John will explore Hitchcock’s The Birds (1963), looking closely at some essential scenes in the film comparing the masterful techniques used on the page and on screen.

Dates and Locations

Sunday 14 September 2025 Cairns (QLD)

Wednesday 17 September 2025 Geelong (VIC)

Tuesday 23 September 2025 Canberra (ACT)

Monday 29 September 2025 Fleurieu (SA)

Click on your preferred location above for more details and to book tickets.