Well, it is different…but will it have an audience for the average person?
Blind has done very well with critics so far, as well as on the film festival circuit–having won many awards including some very prestigious ones at Sundance. However, for the life of me, I am left with very little to say about this film. After all, critics love it and I’m a critic…but I felt confused by the whole thing and have no idea what I saw. Additionally, I think most viewers will feel the same way and I cannot see who the audience is for this one, other than film critics. Of course, I could be wrong and the film could end up becoming a huge hit…but I wouldn’t bet on it.
Before I talk about what I thought of the film, as well as the plot, I should point out right up front that the film has plenty of material that many will find shocking. Clips of a wide variety of internet porn are included in the film–and some of it is pretty bizarre. Moreover, there’s quite a bit of additional nudity in this one and the film has scenes of people masturbating as well as talking about it, hence, if you’re easily offended, you should avoid Blind. If your mother or kids or Father Flannigan suggest you watch a movie together, for the love of God, do not watch this film! I’m not saying this because I’m prudish–but I also feel that an important part of reviewing films is providing this information, thus allowing you can make an informed choice.
As far as the plot goes, I really cannot adequately explain it except that it’s about a blind lady. So, I looked on the internet to try to see exactly what was happening in the film but none of it helped me very much. After a while, I realized that some of the characters and action isn’t actually happening–it’s imagined. So, understanding what is happening is tough–and the film was almost impossible to grasp, and is bound to alienate many of you. It’s very rare that I have trouble understanding a movie and I am pretty sure some sophisticated folk will write in to tell me how stupid I am for not understanding Blind. I grant you, I could just be completely missing the point of the plot…but I also wonder if there really is a point and coherent plot to the film. Some may like this sort of thing, after all, Tree of Life was like this and yet is was Oscar-nominated for best picture. I didn’t enjoy it in the least nor did anyone I know but many critics loved it…and again, I might just missing something…though I am supposed to be a critic.
The bottom line is that if you like cryptic films, you’ll probably enjoy Blind. If, on the other hand, you’re like most folks, I cannot see you picking this movie in the first place or sticking with it.
I would love to hear from those of you who saw the film–whether you liked it or not. I’d love your opinions, impressions or an explanation of the plot. Sorry I cannot provide one…I was just left baffled and confused…which is odd since I am a reasonably well-educated guy who usually loves artsy films. In some ways, as I watched, I also felt blind…figuratively speaking.
Martin’s Grade: C
by Martin Hafer
