Two Evil Eyes (1990) Review

When horror aficionados see the names George A. Romero and Dario Argento together on a project, expectations are naturally high. "Two Evil Eyes" is a 1990 horror anthology film that brings these two legendary directors into collaboration. Each director takes on a short film inspired by the tales of Edgar Allan Poe, promising a chilling double feature that taps into the macabre sensibilities of its creators. This film isn't just about delivering scares; it's a dive into the psyche of horror through the lens of two masters known for their unique styles.

Plot Summary

"Two Evil Eyes" is divided into two segments, each helmed by one of the directors. The first story, "The Facts in the Case of Mr. Valdemar," directed by George A. Romero, explores themes of greed and manipulation. It follows the story of a young woman conspiring with her lover to swindle her dying husband's fortune. However, their plan takes a sinister turn when they dabble in hypnosis, unleashing unexpected horrors.

The second segment, "The Black Cat," directed by Dario Argento, brings a more surreal and violent twist to the classic Poe story. It centers on a crime scene photographer who becomes entangled in a series of murders. His obsession with the macabre and his deteriorating sanity take him down a dark path, one that ultimately blurs the lines between reality and madness.

Performances

The performances in "Two Evil Eyes" are a mixed bag but contain notable highlights. Adrienne Barbeau shines in Romero's segment, bringing a palpable sense of tension and desperation to her role as Jessica Valdemar. Her ability to convey vulnerability mixed with cunning makes her character both relatable and unsettling as she navigates the treacherous waters of her own making.

In Argento's tale, Harvey Keitel takes center stage as the troubled photographer Roderick Usher. Keitel's performance is intense and unhinged, capturing Usher's descent into madness with a visceral energy. His portrayal is unflinching, providing a window into the character's unraveling psyche. Supporting roles by actors like Ramy Zada and Martin Balsam add depth, though some performances feel slightly overdramatic, which can be jarring.

Direction and Craft

George A. Romero and Dario Argento bring their distinct horror sensibilities to "Two Evil Eyes," each leaving their mark on their respective segments. Romero, known for his slow-burn narrative style, injects "The Facts in the Case of Mr. Valdemar" with a methodical pacing that builds tension gradually. His use of atmospheric lighting and practical effects adds an eerie undercurrent to the story, making it a classic ghostly tale.

Dario Argento, in contrast, brings his flair for the visually striking and the surreal to "The Black Cat." The segment is marked by vivid color palettes and stylized gore, hallmarks of Argento's work. His ability to craft unsettling visuals complements the story's descent into madness. Argento's segment is more fast-paced, with quick cuts and a dynamic camera that keeps viewers on edge.

The film's production values hold up well, considering its age. The special effects, while somewhat dated by today's standards, maintain a certain charm, especially for collectors who appreciate practical effects over CGI. The score, composed by Pino Donaggio, enhances the eerie atmosphere, providing a memorable backdrop to the unfolding horrors.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, "Two Evil Eyes" offers a unique piece of horror history, showcasing the collaborative efforts of Romero and Argento. The film is best experienced on Blu-ray, where the audio and visual quality do justice to the directors' artistic intentions. This format captures the film's atmospheric details and Argento's vivid color schemes in their full glory.

While not exceedingly rare, "Two Evil Eyes" is considered uncommon, making it a worthy addition to any horror anthology collection. Its appeal lies not only in the stories themselves but also in the iconic pairing of two horror legends adapting Poe's tales.

A collector who appreciates the art of horror will find value in owning this film, especially if they are fans of Romero or Argento. The Blu-ray edition often includes insightful extras, such as making-of documentaries and commentary tracks, which provide a deeper understanding of the film's creation and its place in horror cinema.