While much attention is deservedly given to Vertigo's main characters, Scottie Ferguson and Madeline Elster/Judy Barton, the significance of Marjorie "Midge" Wood often goes underappreciated. I’d like to explore the crucial role Midge plays in the narrative structure, thematic development, and overall impact of "Vertigo."
Midge, portrayed by Barbara Bel Geddes, serves as a stark contrast to the ethereal Madeline/Judy (Kim Novak). Where Madeline is mysterious and alluring, Midge is practical and down-to-earth. This contrast is evident not only in their personalities but also in their visual representation. Madeline is often seen in elegant, flowing outfits with her blonde hair perfectly styled, while Midge appears in sensible clothing, her brunette hair simply arranged. This visual dichotomy underscores one of the film's central themes: the conflict between reality and fantasy.
In terms of narrative structure, Midge plays a crucial role in providing exposition and context. As Scottie's ex-fiancée and longtime friend, she offers insights into his past and his character that would otherwise be difficult to convey naturally. Her presence in the early parts of the film helps establish Scottie's world before it's upended by his obsession with Madeline. Midge acts as a grounding force for Scottie, repeatedly attempting to bring him back to reality when he becomes lost in his fantasies and obsessions.
Midge disappears from the latter part of the film. This absence is significant, as it coincides with Scottie's deepest descent into obsession and delusion. Without Midge's stabilizing presence, Scottie loses his last tether to the real world, allowing the audience to fully experience his psychological unraveling.
Beyond her narrative function, Midge symbolizes reality and normalcy in a story increasingly dominated by illusion and obsession. Her practical nature and genuine concern for Scottie's well-being stand in sharp contrast to the manipulative and deceptive behavior of other characters. Midge represents the "real world" that Scottie increasingly rejects in favor of his idealized vision of Madeline.
One of the most poignant aspects of Midge's character is her unrequited love for Scottie. Their relationship is complex: they were once engaged but broke it off, remaining friends. Throughout the film, Midge makes several attempts to win Scottie's affection, but he remains oblivious, consumed by his obsession with Madeline. This dynamic adds depth to both characters and heightens the tragedy of Scottie's fixation on an unattainable ideal.
The painting incident is a pivotal moment in Midge's arc. In an attempt to appeal to Scottie's obsession, she paints herself in the style of the portrait of Carlotta Valdes that fascinates Scottie. This misguided effort backfires spectacularly, disgusting Scottie and driving a wedge between them. This scene powerfully illustrates the futility of Midge's love for Scottie and the destructive nature of his obsession.
Midge's character also serves as a commentary on gender roles in 1950s America. As a successful commercial artist, she represents a level of independence and career focus that was relatively uncommon for women in films of that era. Her character subverts traditional female roles often seen in film noir, where women are typically portrayed as either femme fatales or damsels in distress. Midge is neither - she's competent, self-reliant, and genuinely caring.
This portrayal stands in contrast to Madeline/Judy, who embodies a more traditional femininity. While Madeline is presented as mysterious and alluring, and Judy as vulnerable and malleable, Midge remains consistently true to herself. This contrast highlights the film's exploration of male fantasy versus reality in relationships.
Midge's character is integral to several of Hitchcock's key themes in "Vertigo." She plays a crucial role in the exploration of obsession and idealization. Scottie's rejection of Midge in favor of his idealized vision of Madeline demonstrates the destructive power of obsession and the danger of prioritizing fantasy over reality.
The conflict between reality and fantasy is at the heart of "Vertigo," and Midge embodies this theme. Her practical, grounded nature represents the real world that Scottie increasingly rejects. As Scottie delves deeper into his obsession, Midge's attempts to bring him back to reality become more futile, illustrating the power of delusion and the difficulty of distinguishing truth from illusion.
Midge's unrequited love for Scottie parallels Scottie's own doomed love for Madeline/Judy. Both love someone who cannot or will not return their affections, creating a cycle of longing and disappointment. This parallel adds depth to the film's exploration of the nature of love and desire.
While Midge may not be the central character in "Vertigo," her importance to the film cannot be overstated. She serves multiple crucial functions: as a contrast to Madeline/Judy, as a provider of exposition and context, as a symbol of reality and normalcy, and as a commentary on gender roles. Her unrequited love for Scottie adds emotional depth to the story and parallels Scottie's own doomed romance.
Midge's character contributes significantly to the film's exploration of obsession, the conflict between reality and fantasy, and the nature of love and desire. Her presence in the early parts of the film and notable absence later highlight Scottie's psychological deterioration. Even when she's not on screen, the memory of Midge and what she represents - normalcy, reality, genuine affection - looms over Scottie's descent into obsession.
Ultimately, Midge's role in "Vertigo" adds layers of complexity to an already intricate narrative. She provides a crucial counterpoint to the film's central romance, offering a perspective that grounds the story and heightens its tragic elements. Without Midge, "Vertigo" would lose much of its nuance and emotional resonance. Her character serves as a reminder of the world Scottie leaves behind in his pursuit of an impossible ideal, making his eventual fall all the more devastating.
In the grand tapestry of "Vertigo," Midge may not be the most prominent thread, but she is undoubtedly one of the most essential. Her presence enriches the film's themes, deepens its characters, and contributes significantly to its enduring power as a masterpiece of cinema.
Barbara Bel Geddes: The Woman Behind Midge
Barbara Bel Geddes (1922-2005) was an accomplished American actress whose portrayal of Midge in Alfred Hitchcock's "Vertigo" (1958) remains one of her most memorable roles.
Born into a theatrical family in New York City, Bel Geddes began her career on Broadway in 1941. Her transition to film brought early success, including an Academy Award nomination for her role in "I Remember Mama" (1948).
In "Vertigo," Bel Geddes brought depth and warmth to the character of Midge, creating a stark contrast to Kim Novak's ethereal Madeline/Judy. Her naturalistic acting style and ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety made her performance particularly impactful.
While "Vertigo" showcased her talents, Bel Geddes is perhaps best known for her role as Miss Ellie Ewing in the long-running television series "Dallas" (1978-1990), for which she won an Emmy Award.
Beyond acting, Bel Geddes was also an accomplished artist and children's book author. Her multifaceted career and talent for bringing authenticity to her roles made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Bel Geddes' portrayal of Midge in "Vertigo" continues to be celebrated as a crucial element of the film's enduring impact, highlighting her ability to create memorable characters even in supporting roles.
Brava for Midge and bravo for your ongoing contribution to Vertigo study.
Lovely stuff!