The loss of a sense is an obviously devastating and life changing experience. Whilst the body and mind can gradually adjust, there’s a period where every day becomes a new learning experience. Sigh, is arguably the most important sense. If the lights go out, the world can become a very strange and scary place. In See No Evil director Richard Fleischer exploits his lead character’s recent blindness to great effect.
After losing her sight during a horse riding accident, Sarah (Mia Farrow) is staying at her uncle’s house. One day whilst she’s out with her partner Steve (Norman Eshley), her relatives are all brutally murdered. She doesn’t notice this at first, but when the killer realises that he’s left something at the crime scene he has to return. It leaves Sarah running for her life, stumbling in the dark, not knowing who to trust.
See No Evil is technically superb, with Fleischer using an array of camera angles and tricks to demonstrate Sarah’s perspective. A taut script and cleverly choreographed scenes immerse the audience into the action; allowing an understanding of her predicament. Farrow is absolutely superb in the lead role. Whilst she’s signposted as the victim from the very start, she puts in a highly believable performance, even putting life and limb on the line. See No Evil is a stylish and astutely-made ‘70s thriller with a twist.
Indicator Limited Edition Special Features:
• High Definition remaster
• Original mono audio
• Blind Terror: the alternative UK cut
• Norman Eshley on ‘See No Evil’ (2017, 11 mins): a new interview with the British actor
• The Two Versions: a detailed comparison of the differences between the US and UK cuts
• Alternative Italian title sequence
• Original theatrical trailer
• Image galleries: extensive on-set and promotional photography
• New and improved English subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing
• Limited edition exclusive booklet with a new essay by Chris Fujiwara, an interview with Richard Fleischer, and an overview of contemporary critical responses
• UK premiere on Blu-ray
• Limited Dual Format Edition of 3,000 copies
See No Evil is released on Dual Format (DVD & Blu-ray) by Powerhouse Films as part of the Indicator Series on 25 September.
