I must warn viewers, this documentary is not well suited for those who get their opinions in the ready-meal aisle. 'See No Evil' provides no commentary which is both its strength and its misfortune as so many have the need for being told what to think when viewing a movie.
'See No Evil' captures three apes in the later stage of their life. Cheeta, a former movie-star turned abstract painter who now lives a comfortable retirement in Palm Springs. Kanzi, a chimpanzee who was taught English and can communicate with her carers on an amazing level. Now relieved of scientific investigation, she has taken it upon herself to teach her son Teco what she has learnt. And Knuckles, who was subjected to all kinds of tests in the fifties and sixties by NASA to further their space-travel endeavour. He now lives out his days in a primate nursing facility trying to cope with the damage his past inflicted upon him.
This documentary offers a view on a species which, more often than not, comes across as remarkably human. Clever editing of the elderly primates and archive footage of their past, gives us a stunning perspective on our own changing understanding of the phrase "With great power, comes great responsibility". With a hauntingly beautiful and thoroughly moving epilogue, this documentary proves to be a true mirror for humanity. It hits like a bomb and clings to your thoughts. And most of all, it leaves you with a sense of awe and wonder for our biological cousins.
'See No Evil' is subdued throughout in both musical accompaniment and camera-work. It knows what it is and does not deviate from its formula giving it a purposeful feel of direction.
Personally, this movie struck me, and it struck me hard. I'd recommend it to anyone and I'll go as far as to say it should be nominated for an Oscar.
