Review of Don't Look Now (1936) by Whit W — 29 Sep 2013

Visually, "Don't Look Now" is certainly different, almost experimental. But it's so hung up on those visuals that it forgets to bring the story along with it. The film is plodding, but when it moves, it jumps around within the alleys and canals of Venice. It's disorienting to say the least and maybe the location is part of the director's game.

This isn't a scary movie. There are a number of moments when we get a glimpse of a red-coated, ghostly figure that resembles what John (Donald Sutherland) and Laura's (Julie Christie) daughter was wearing when she died. It feels a bit like a predecessor to many of today's Horror movies that feature a scary little girl. There aren't many moments of horror or tension, except for the early death of the girl. Outside of that, Religion is flirted with but it doesn't play any substantial role in the plot.

Julie Christie's joy upon hearing details about her daughter from a blind but psychic woman is a standout moment. She lights up a movie that to this point had been dreary as Hell. She's gorgeous and I had a hard time with Sutherland being paired with her. He's no fun to watch in this movie and the love-making scene with Christie doesn't help. The director goes absolutely Austin Powers in the scene, strategically hinding Sutherland's naughty bits a number of times. Funny is what it is.

The ending was a total letdown. It's sort of makes sense and it's a twist, but it's too much of stretch.