Eric said:

There is a very remarkable similarity between "Watching Alice" and the story of the French movie "Monsieur Hire" (1989), a disturbing and touching thriller about obsession, voyeurism, tragedy and devotion. The story: "Monsieur Hire" is a quit, lonely, reclusive man. Every night he stands at his window, staring across the courtyard and into the apartment of a young woman, a waitress named Alice. He watches her eat, dress (indeed, she puts on her uniform, but I can't remember where the zipper was), sleep, read and make love. This goes on year after year, and Alice is unaware of the observation. Until one evening, in a flash of lightning, she sees his face staring at her. The next day Alice bumps purposefully into M. Hire outside his apartment. They develop a curious relationship. In a subplot M. Hire becomes a suspect when a young girl is found murdered. But the main theme is the interaction between Alice and M. Hire. A must-see.

The similarities with "Watching Alice" are obvious. Interesting is that "Tender Prey" was written in 1986, and this movie in 1988. But the screenplay is based on a short story by George Simenon, written in the fifties.

Another thing: if you have the chance, check out a fine painting by the Dutch artist Vanessa Jane Phaff, called "Alice" (currently in stock in I-20 Gallery, 529 West 20th st. New York). It's not a direct visual interpretation of the song, but you will recognise the atmosphere and there's definitely a Nick Cave influence there. (I know, because the artist is my wife.)

Kim folowed up:

My 'study notes' say that NC's "Watching Alice" is based on Patricia Roberts novel entitled "Tender Prey" publishing details below:

Published by Doubleday Publication date: August 1983 ISBN: 0385183925

Published by Ballantine Books Publication date: November 1984 ISBN: 0345317815

Published by G K Hall & Co Publication date: June 1985 ISBN: 085119298X