Synopsis
In an opening sequence that chills no matter how many times you see it, the little daughter ofDonald Sutherland and Julie Christie drowns. The action then shifts to Venice some time later, asthe couple move through the mourning. A blind woman claims to be a medium with visions ofthe daughter. Christie believes, but Sutherland will have none of it. But then why does he keepseeing a little figure in a red raincoat, a figure that might be his daughter…
Director Nicol…s Roeg’s disorienting use of time doesn’t always work for me, but in thisfilm, the effect is stunning. Image an atmospheric ghost story like The Others crossed with atouch of Memento, and you have some idea of what to expect. Flawless.
Audio
The soundtrack is the original mono. Barring a few minor distortions, the sound is crisp. Thisis a very low key film in many ways, and so a remastered stereo mix isn’t really called for.
Video
There is some minor film grain, but otherwise the transfer (in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen)looks terrific. The blacks are good, the flesh tones are true, the colours and contrasts are rich andthe image is sharp. The all-important red (if you thought that colour was important in The SixthSense, just wait for it here) looks marvellous.
Special Features
Nothing but the trailer (which looks a bit rough), which is disappointing, given howimportant the film is.
Closing Thoughts
This is one of the finest horror movies ever made. On no account should it be missed.
Special Features List
- Theatrical Trailer
