Comments on: EYES WITHOUT A FACE (1960) (****)

by: ricksflickspicks

Fri, 30 May 2008 23:16:16 +0000

Horror films are often at their best when they tap into the darker side of human nature, allowing the viewer to relate to the “monster.” Here we get two “monsters” — the murderous father and the deformed daughter, who is also the victim. Just like Frankenstein’s monster, it’s not Christiane’s fault for the way she looks. The similarities don’t just end there. This film is filled with unsettling visuals and ideas. A true classic.

by: Marc Chomel

Fri, 30 May 2008 23:00:01 +0000

A nerve racking film- from the pathos of a caring father’s concern for his deformed child to the terrifying extremes he is willing to go to rectify the injury. The surgery is hard to take, and the resulting disappointments with the deteriorating results is truly a let-down. The film for all of its shenanigans rings true in its portrayal of the unrealistic expectations of miracle cures, as well as the lengths to which a parent’s love may go to protect a child. As for the unexpected victims, nothing could be worse than the terror that the young woman feels when she wakes up from her bed and discovers that she no longer has a face. Jumping from the second floor window seems like a good option.

by: ricksflickspicks

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 17:37:36 +0000

Very true. The ending is very open to interpretation. Christiane is now free from her father, but what life does she have? She lost everything and all those other girls had to die in the process. She no longer is a physical prisoner, but emotionally will she be a prisoner of her guilt for what happened?

by: Suzanne Bogert

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 06:08:08 +0000

This movie is haunting…one of the most chilling, maddening, yet maybe cathartic films I have seen of the genre. Cinematography, music, and plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. A true classic. The surgery scene is one of the most wriggly, hate-to-be-in the theatre- but still need to keep your eyes open- I am glad I made it through that part - moments. Ugh. As for the white doves at the end…it’s your interpretation. Am I to feel better? Has something good come of it all? Your decision.