If you ever had any doubt that Rutger Hauer was (and is) one of the coolest actors on the planet, just take a look at the man’s body of work. Sure, there a few clunkers along the way, but just watch “The Hitcher” which proved he could play a vicious killer or “Ladyhawke” where he stands out as the reluctant hero separated from his true love by tortuous curse. Back in the 80’s, we also learned he had a flair for action comedy with the little seen, “Blind Fury.” Directed by Phillip Noyce (of “Patriot Games” and ”Clear and Present Danger” fame) “Blind Fury” serves up Hauer as Nick Parker, a Vietnam Vet who is blinded in a firefight. He is taken in by the residents of a small village who saves him, both physically and spiritually. He learns that even without his eyesight he can function quite well by using the rest of his senses, even to the point of defending himself against attack. As you might imagine, as his teachers are Asian, swordsmanship becomes a big part of his lessons.

Years later, he finds himself in search of one of his war buddies (Terry O’Quinn). He locates Frank’s ex-wife and son, Billy. After the demise of the ex-wife, Parker sets off again to find Frank, with Billy in tow. Billy is somewhat of a brat, but the relationship between the two allows him to do a little growing up. Frank, as it turns out, is making drugs for a corrupt casino boss, and is in need of some saving himself.

“Blind Fury”, while full of great fight sequences, is also quite comical. Some of the situations are a little over the top, but not so much so as to make it an out-and-out comedy. Hauer is especially good as Parker, creating a hero that you can cheer for as well as laugh with. In a way, he reminded of Zatoichi, The Blind Samurai, from the series of the same name. Parker’s motivations are a bit different, but both incorporate light humor into their persona.

The DVD is pretty spares when it comes to extra features, opting only to have a ‘Talent File’ for Hauer. But since the movie is from the 1980’s and could hardly be considered a classic, I can understand the decision was a cost-effective one.

If I had to put together a list of Hauer’s better films, “Blind Fury” might not be in the top ten, but it would be on the list all the same.

Directed by: Phillip Noyce
Starring: Rutger Hauer, Terrance O’Quinn, Lisa Blount, Randall “Tex” Cobb”, Nobly Willingham
Extras: Talent Files
Specifications: Widescreen (1.85:1) Enhanced for 16x9 Televisions, English Dolby Surround
Studio: Sony / Columbia Tristar
Release Date: 11/28/2004
Region 1
MPAA Rating: R
Website

We'll give Blind Fury a C.