Review: Two Evil Eyes (1990)

When it comes to horror anthologies, you’d be hard-pressed to find one more intriguing than Two Evil Eyes. Released in 1990, this film is a unique collaboration between two of the genre’s most iconic directors: George A. Romero and Dario Argento. Drawing inspiration from the chilling works of Edgar Allan Poe, the film combines two stories, each helmed by one of these legendary directors. If you're a collector who has a penchant for the macabre and a soft spot for horror icons, this film is likely on your radar.

Plot Summary

Two Evil Eyes presents two distinct stories based on Edgar Allan Poe's tales, each crafted with the distinct style of its respective director. The first segment, titled “The Facts in the Case of Mr. Valdemar,” is directed by George A. Romero. It explores the themes of greed and manipulation as a woman and her lover attempt to swindle her dying husband out of his fortune, only to encounter supernatural consequences.

The second segment, “The Black Cat,” is directed by Dario Argento. This story follows a crime scene photographer who becomes increasingly unhinged after a series of disturbing events involving a mysterious black cat. True to Argento’s style, this segment is filled with tension and psychological thrills.

Performances

The performances in Two Evil Eyes are a significant part of what makes the film engaging. In “The Facts in the Case of Mr. Valdemar,” Adrienne Barbeau takes on the role of Jessica Valdemar. Her portrayal of a woman caught between greed and guilt is both convincing and engrossing. Supporting her is Ramy Zada, who plays the manipulative lover with a sly charm that makes his character both intriguing and repulsive.

“The Black Cat” features Harvey Keitel in the lead role as the tormented photographer, Roderick Usher. Keitel delivers a strong performance that captures the descent into madness with finesse. His ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from paranoia to rage, adds layers to the character that keep the viewer invested. Supporting roles, such as Madeleine Potter as Annabel, further complement the intensity of the segment.

Direction and Craft

George A. Romero and Dario Argento each bring their unique flair to their respective segments, crafting a film that feels both cohesive and distinct. Romero’s segment leans into his strength of creating atmospheric tension, with the supernatural elements providing a classic horror feel. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the eerie undertones to seep into the narrative.

Conversely, Argento’s segment is visually striking, with his signature use of color and shadow creating a nightmarish quality. His ability to craft a tense and unsettling atmosphere is on full display, making “The Black Cat” a standout in terms of visual storytelling.

The special effects and makeup, particularly in Romero's segment, are effectively used to enhance the horror elements. While the practical effects may not be cutting-edge by today’s standards, they hold a certain charm that collectors of classic horror will appreciate.

Collector's Verdict

For horror enthusiasts and collectors, Two Evil Eyes is a fascinating addition to any collection, particularly for fans of Romero and Argento. The film captures a moment in time when two horror legends came together, offering a unique piece of genre history. The best format to own this film is on Blu-ray, as it provides the best visual and audio quality to appreciate the intricate details of Argento’s and Romero’s work.

In terms of rarity, Two Evil Eyes is considered uncommon, making it a valuable piece for collectors who focus on horror anthologies or the works of these directors. While not impossible to find, this film's unique collaboration gives it a special place in horror collections.

Overall, while the film may not reach the heights of each director’s more celebrated works, it remains a noteworthy exploration of Poe’s stories through the lenses of two horror icons.

Star Rating

With its strong performances and distinctive directional styles, Two Evil Eyes earns a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. It may not be a flawless film, but its historical significance and unique collaboration make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.