I'm not a film student, so I can't discuss how successful this film is in depicting the themes of voyeurism, but I can sure say, me likee!

I remember how I wanted to see this back in the early 80's, but back then, you had to leave a $50 deposit before you could rent videos and this one video store was the only place that had it, so I didn't want to open a membership just for one movie,....so I never saw it. But now that I've seen it: this is a cool movie, as far as thriller/horror films go, this is suspenseful and creepy. I don't think any of the reviews mention just how effective the payoff is at the end when you find out how Mark films his victims fearful performances. But I didn't feel cheated by some overhyped flick; this really is a classic. And don't forget to pay attention to the colors, bright oranges and cool blues; modern film stock doesn't produce colors like that anymore.

Agreed - one fine film! (If you have the Criterion, check out the extras, especially the info on the screenwriter - fascinating.)

If you think that the color photography is good in this, check out another Powell-Pressburger film that's also available on Criterion Black Narcissus - it will blow you away with the richness and detail.

Moving to Movie Talk Forum.

- David Stein

Excellent,excellent film and way ahead of its time. Too bad that it practically ruined Powell's career. Critics savaged the film at the time (meanwhile, now its considered a classic).

Unforgettable & unsettling film; especially the opening sequence. Its sad to hear how Powell and the actors were treated at the premier and in reviews, but I guess audiences just weren't ready for it at the time.