In Vertigo, former policeman John "Scottie" Ferguson suffers from a fear of heights. He is hired by an old friend to shadow his wife Madeleine. In the process, Scottie falls in love with Madeleine. But his growing obsession leads him into a maelstrom of deception, illusion and madness.

The film explores central themes such as control, identity and the construction of reality. Alongside these themes, Vertigo also offers an early exploration of the male gaze - the way in which the female figure is idealized, controlled and shaped through the eyes of the male protagonist and the camera. Scottie's desire not only to save Madeleine, but also to perfect her, is reflected in the cinematic gaze, which portrays the woman as the object of his desire and control. This dynamic still raises questions today about gender roles, power relations and the representation of women in the media.