We've seen plenty of similar films before about a person suddenly having strange experiences, whatever the impetus; one will recognize further familiar garnishes here and there, such as the wry passing remark by a supporting character that such goings-on "only happen in horror stories." As is almost always the case, however, just because a title may play in a recognizable space doesn't make it any less worthy - and indeed, with the esteemed Shaw Brothers producing this 1974 flick, one is all but assured of a viewing experience that's unique and memorable in at least some capacity. I wasn't sure what to expect when I sat to watch 'Ghost eyes,' but it doesn't take long to start showing its worth: this is pretty great, and to be honest, even better than I could have hoped!
It's noteworthy that a significant revelation comes in the plot for protagonist Bao Ling after only about one-third of the runtime has elapsed, which seems especially early for a twist of the sort that in comparable Hollywood flicks would be reserved for maybe the last third. It's only reasonable to wonder where the narrative might go from there, so I'm utterly delighted that the answer lies in a direction that's decidedly more diabolical. What sounds from the outside looking in like a common ghost story becomes a decidedly more deadly and ghastly affair, and more impactful and compelling in the process. Writers Yun-Wen Chen and Kuang Ni penned a wonderfully strong, dark tale that elicits meaningful feelings of horror, and equally smart scene writing all along the way keeps the fire burning with one gnarly idea or vision after another. And with that firm foundation, everything else here is just as superb.
Setting aside kung fu (which we don't get in this case), if there's only one thing we generally expect from the Shaw Brothers it is art direction that's a real treat for our eyes. That pretty well holds true here, except that instead of the luscious sets for period pieces, in this present-day setting Mao-Lung Lin's creativity is mostly geared toward grim, dreary sets and surroundings that help to cement a forbidding ambience. That atmosphere is lent still more power by Yung-Yu Chen's terrific original music, a plethora of rich, grabbing themes that echo the increasingly intense and violent course of events. Why, it rather seems to me that most every facet of 'Ghost eyes' is bent toward at least supporting if not accentuating and amplifying the ominous airs. That includes the excellent stunts and effects (practical and post-production alike), lovely costume design, and shrewd hair and makeup. As the plot develops and things become more harrowing for Bao Ling, subtle gradations in her appearance betray the effect it all is having on her, to the point that in some measure there is perhaps a slight psychological element to the saga. To that same end, the cast at large give outstanding performances commensurate with the dastardly nature of the proceedings, and even those in smaller supporting parts are swell. Make no mistake, though, that it's star Szu-Chia Chen who stands out most as our protagonist, and to whatever extent the vanity artists had a hand in crafting Chen's look, the actor wields admirable nuance, physicality, and emotional depth, showing us a woman who is increasingly haunted, and frazzled by her experiences. I'm somewhat of the mind that Chen's acting is one of the especial highlights.
Chih-Hung Kuei's direction ensures that every beat and notion is orchestrated to achieve the maximum desired effect, making use of some striking angles and shot composition along the way, and cinematographer Chi Yu keeps up with active work that keeps us strung along for the ride. And the result of all this is a picture of spirits, death, and manipulation that carries a few quirks, and some traces of pieces with which we may already be acquainted, but unquestionably strikes out on a path all its own, with tremendous results. I've watched a few different horror flicks from the Shaw Brothers now, and while the output may be a tad variable in strength from one to the next, much more than not they're imaginative, and deviously fun. I'm happy to say that as far as I'm concerned 'Ghost eyes' is one of the better instances, well made in every regard and making a solid impression. My expectations may have been a bit mixed at the outset, but I'm so very pleased with how good this is - entertaining and satisfying, and aptly meeting one's cravings for the genre. I gladly give this my high and hearty recommendation; 'Ghost eyes' is well worth seeking out!
