Which cinematic element is Alfred Hitchcock best known for utilizing?

Alfred Hitchcock is best known for his mastery of suspense and psychological tension in filmmaking. His unique ability to create an atmosphere of unease and anticipation defined his style and set him apart as a master of the thriller genre. Hitchcock's films often explored complex human emotions and moral dilemmas, using techniques such as careful pacing, innovative camera angles, and a focus on character psychology to elicit a strong emotional response from audiences.

For instance, he used techniques such as the "MacGuffin," which is a plot device that drives the story forward but is ultimately of little importance in itself, serving to build suspense around its significance. Hitchcock also employed visual storytelling to evoke feelings of dread, as seen in classics like "Psycho" and "Rear Window," where tension is built up through both narrative and visual elements. This consistent focus on suspense and psychological depth in his films has solidified his legacy as a pioneering director in the realm of psychological thrillers.