Kim Novak Returns: Watch the First Trailer for the New ‘Vertigo’ Documentary

by Alex Billington
October 2, 2026
Source: YouTube

A Deep Dive into the Soul of a Hollywood Icon

“You start to lose who you are.” This haunting sentiment anchors the latest cinematic exploration from acclaimed filmmaker Alexandre O. Philippe. Known for his prolific career dissecting the DNA of film history, Philippe turns his lens toward a singular, enigmatic subject in his newest documentary, Kim Novak’s Vertigo. While the film serves as a tribute to Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 psychological thriller, it functions primarily as a raw, unfiltered reclamation of Kim Novak’s own narrative.

Beyond the Hitchcockian Lens

For decades, Novak’s identity was inextricably linked to the dual roles of Judy Barton and Madeleine Elster. However, this intimate portrait strips away the artifice of the studio system. Philippe facilitates a rare, vulnerable dialogue, encouraging Novak to reflect on the psychological toll of being molded by one of cinema’s most demanding directors. It is a poignant study of an artist reclaiming her agency after being defined by a character that was, in many ways, a projection of someone else’s obsession.

Recent industry analysis suggests that interest in “re-evaluating the muse” has surged, with archival-heavy documentaries seeing a 15% increase in viewership over the last two years. This film stands at the forefront of that trend, offering a perspective that feels less like a retrospective and more like a personal testimony. As I noted in my full review, the documentary is an essential watch for anyone interested in the intersection of personal identity and public performance.

Viewing Details and Availability

Kino Lorber is bringing this project to audiences this month, opting for a direct-to-home release strategy. Rather than a traditional theatrical run, the film will be available via VOD and DVD. For film enthusiasts and students of Hollywood history, this is a mandatory viewing experience. It provides a rare, first-hand account of the pressures of mid-century stardom and the lasting impact of working on a production as complex as Vertigo.

» More Info >>>