745. Don’t Look Now

In DON’T LOOK NOW, Nicholas Roeg’s spooky supernatural thriller, Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie find themselves in Venice after the death of their daughter. Amidst the narrow maze of canals and bridges—a perfect setting for getting lost and some what’s-around-the-corner anxiety—they encounter blind psychics, strange visions, and ominous warnings. I’ve seen enough Nicholas Roeg at this point to recognize his hallmarks: story told through unexpected editing and the juxtaposition of imagery. Here, that collage style of filmmaking is at its most refined, and ramps up the sense of unease that permeates the film even when nothing bad is happening. It all leads to a jarring conclusion which, very unfortunately, I had already seen a clip of years ago. Sometimes that doesn’t matter. But in this case, I think I missed out on the full impact of the film’s slowly building sense of mystery. So my advice this Halloween is if you haven’t seen this film yet, and you don’t know what happens, consider yourself lucky and see it now! Quick! Before the spoilers get to you, too! Consider yourself warned.

dontlooknow

 

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2 comments

  1. My new favorite of your superb illustrations. Perhaps because I just watched the movie last weekend for the first time with adult eyes. You capture the dread and sadness so well in this picture. Also: the horror of Donald Sutherland’s wig!

    1. How could I resist drawing a big Donald Sutherland closeup, ridiculous hair and all? Thank you so much! I’m so glad you think I captured a bit of the film’s unease. Frankly, I’m glad I visited Venice *before* watching this film, because the entire city would probably creep me out now.

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