The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956 film)

The Man Who Knew Too Much is a 1956 American suspense thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, starring James Stewart and Doris Day. It is a remake of Hitchcock's own 1934 British film of the same name, but with a significantly different script and expanded scope.

The plot centers around Ben and Jo McKenna, an American couple vacationing in French Morocco with their son, Hank. While in Marrakech, they become entangled in an assassination plot after accidentally overhearing a dying secret agent's cryptic message. Hank is kidnapped to ensure their silence, forcing Ben and Jo to travel to London and navigate a web of international intrigue to save him.

The film is notable for its suspenseful atmosphere, use of exotic locations, and memorable musical score, particularly Doris Day's performance of "Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)," which became a popular song and is prominently featured in the film's climax. Differences from the 1934 version include a change of profession for the protagonists, a more elaborate assassination plot, and a stronger emphasis on Jo McKenna's maternal anxieties. While both films share the same basic premise, the 1956 version is generally considered to be more polished and visually impressive due to its larger budget and Technicolor cinematography. The film explores themes of parental love, international espionage, and the moral dilemmas faced by ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances. It is a classic example of Hitchcock's mastery of suspense and remains a popular and influential film in the thriller genre.