Cast
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Richard Pryor
as Wallace 'Wally' Karue
Gene Wilder
as Dave Lyons
Joan Severance
as Eve
Kevin Spacey
as Kirgo
Alan North
as Braddock
Lauren Tom
as Mitzie
John Capodice
as Scotto
Alexandra Neil
as Sally
Tonya Pinkins
as Leslie
Anthony Zerbe
as Sutherland
Kirsten Childs
as Adele
Hardy Rawls
as Beefy Tourist
Louis Giambalvo
as Gatlin
Audrie Neenan
as Policewoman and Marilyn
George Bartenieff
as Huddelston
Crew
Director
- Arthur Hiller
Producer
- Marvin Worth
Reviews
kevin2019
"See No Evil, Hear No Evil" is a very entertaining film and it is the perfect vehicle for the combined talents of Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder simply because it takes a straight forward central idea - Pryor is blind and Wilder is deaf - and it proceeds to place the pair in a succession of outrageous situations which quite frankly only they could perform as realistically as they do. This film also serves up a really generous ration of genuine laughs and it provides an empowering and positive attitude towards disability and as Wilder's character David Lyons comments at one point they are the least well equipped men to be doing what they are doing, but instead of this obstacle being a deterrent and a reason to give up it only serves to propel them forward.
Sep 20, 2024
Thematic Analysis
See No Evil, Hear No Evil represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Arthur Hiller brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of See No Evil, Hear No Evil took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $18.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1655 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While See No Evil, Hear No Evil shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dard Divorce, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, See No Evil, Hear No Evil subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Big Stan and Blind Dating explore similar territory, See No Evil, Hear No Evil stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 12, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 43m
- Budget: $18,000,000
- Revenue: $46,900,000
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