Whidbey Island Film Festival, a program of Whidbey Island Center for the Arts in Langley, presents “The Master of Suspense,” a three-day celebration of the stylish, wickedly funny and macabre world of Alfred Hitchcock.

The festival, Jan. 17-19, will feature “Rear Window,” “Rebecca,” “Shadow of a Doubt,” “Vertigo” and “North by Northwest.”

In addition, there will be educational programming, a ShortsFest competition, guest speakers, special events and a pass holders-only “Secret Screening.”

Passes are on sale now at www.WhidbeyIslandFilmFestival.org.

“We are often told that Alfred Hitchcock, the ‘Master of Suspense,’ is one of the most important and significant directors that ever lived,” said Deana Duncan, WIFF co-producer. “But why is that the case, and what does it mean? During the festival, we’ll be taking a look at some of Hitchcock’s most influential films, hearing from experts, exploring how he continues to shape generations of filmmakers, and having a great time while doing so.”

Verna Everitt, WIFF co-producer, said Hitchcock’s films and the festival are audience-focused.

“One thing Hitchcock always kept in mind was how the audience would react to his movies,” she said. “Without an audience, he considered his movie incomplete. In his words, ‘it is the collective audience and their reaction that gives interest to your endeavor.’”

Filmmakers are encouraged to submit short films (three minutes or less) for WIFF’s Hitchcock-inspired ShortsFest. The short films will screen prior to the features.

Details about rules, terms and awards/prizes are found at https://www.whidbeyislandfilmfestival.org.

The late deadline for submissions is Jan. 8.