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Over the years
I’ve seen a lot of movies, not just
because I have to, but also because I generally
enjoy them so much. During that time, I’ve
seen many films that are really outstanding,
but generally unheard of. The main reason
I don’t write about them at length
is simply a matter of availability. I’m
not sure I want to tell you about a really
good movie if the chances are you may not
be able to ever see it.
As DVDs are becoming ever more prevalent,
a lot of the studios are going back into
the vaults and releasing some of my favorite
movies from years ago, and I’m living
the opportunity to revisit many of them.
Coming up this month, Sony / Columbia Tristar
is releasing a film that I haven’t
seen sine it was first released into theatres
back in 1971. It’s called “See No Evil”, and stars Mia Farrow as
a young woman who, after being blinded,
is sent to live with relatives residing
on the English countryside.
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All is well until an unwelcome visitor comes
calling while she is out and murders everyone
in the household. She comes back to a house that
is, unbeknownst to her, full of corpses. Once
she makes the chilling discovery, and realizes
that the killer may come back, the ultimate game
of hide and go seek commences.
“See No Evil” made quite an impression
on me when I was younger. It was, and still is,
a taut and suspenseful thriller. Farrow gives
and amazing performance, and there are many moments
in the film that cause you to hold your breath
in anticipation.
The quality of the disc is surprisingly good
for a film that is over thirty years old, all
the colors are vibrant, and the contrast very
sharp. The sound is also pretty good, though it
is mono. It works well for this film, as there
is very little that stereo would add to it as
the filmmaker utilizes a lot silence, adding to
the creep factor.
“See No Evil” is one of those great
little movies that I wish more people could see.
It’s simply filmed, using plot to move it
forward as opposed to special effects. The story
is full of twists and turns, many of which are
completely unexpected. Now that it is available
on DVD, I recommend it as a good old-fashioned
thriller, perfect for a late night viewing.
Directed by: Richard Fleischer
Starring: Mia Farrow, Dorothy Alison, Robin Bailey
Specifications: Widescreen (1/85:1), Dolby Digital
Mono
Studio: Sony / Columbia Tristar
Release Date: 8/19/2003
Region 1
MPAA Rating: PG
Website
We'll give See No Evil an A.
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