In the land of the blind…
If looking is a central concern of film, then being unable to look constitutes a major crisis, particularly when other people are watching someone who can’t see them doing it. Here are ten films where blind characters are featured.
1. “The Man Who Laughs” (1928)
2. “City Lights” (1931)
3. “The Miracle Worker” (1962)
4. “A Patch of Blue” (1965)
5. “Wait Until Dark” (1967)
6. “See No Evil” (1971)
7. “Scent of a Woman” (1992)
8. “At First Sight” (1999)
9. “The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi” (2003)
10. “Blindness” (2008)
Spotlight films
The Headliner: “The Miracle Worker” (1962)
Dir. Arthur Penn
Adapted from the play of the same name, this classic movie tells the story of Helen Keller and her dedicated teacher, Annie Sullivan. Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke both won Oscars for their performances, and Penn was nominated for Best Director.
The Hidden Gem: “The Man Who Laughs” (1928)
Dir. Paul Leni
Conrad Veidt stars in this silent film adaptation of a novel by Victor Hugo, the author who created “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” as well. Veidt plays a disfigured hero whose true love is a beautiful, blind girl (Mary Philbin) who cannot see his twisted features.
The Cult Classic: “The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi” (2003)
Dir. Takesho Kitano
Zatoichi, the blind swordsman, has long been a popular figure in Japanese film, but this 2003 picture is especially lively in its mix of action, pathos, and comedy. Takesho Kitano stars and directs this tale of the blind masseur who uses his amazing skill with the sword to help those in need.
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