Blind Corner

Blind Corner, alternatively known as Man in the Dark, is a complex and intriguing British crime film, packed with suspense and tension. This 1964 movie directed by Lance Comfort and produced by Maurice Foster, stars William Sylvester, Barbara Shelley, and Elizabeth Shepherd.

Set in the heart of London, the film opens with Paul Gregory (William Sylvester), an ambitious American musician, who has found success in the vibrant city with his beautiful British wife, Carol (Barbara Shelley). Celebrated as an esteemed concert pianist, Paul’s rising star is tragically cut short as he loses his sight, forcing him to rely heavily on those closest to him, including the eternal support of his wife. The story intensifies when another key character, the delightful Jane (Elizabeth Shepherd), enters the plot and starts work as Paul's assistant. Jane, ostensibly a caring and compassionate woman, subtlety injects herself into their lives, immersing herself in the duo's everyday activities.

As the plot thickens, the viewers will be treated to a masterclass in suspense as the actors deliver performances that capture unspoken tension and suspicion. Living in an opulent home in London's leafy suburbs, the central characters find themselves drawn into a web of deceit and potential betrayal. Sylvester’s portrayal of the blind pianist is nuanced, exploring the struggles of his new life and the melting pot of emotions he experiences—from self-pity to courage, vulnerability to resilience.

The character dynamic between Paul and Carol is compelling and complex. Carol, brilliantly portrayed by Shelley, transforms from a loving and devoted wife to a woman torn between her loyalty to her husband and the allure of new possibilities. Her nuanced performance shines light on the dilemma she is facing, wrestling with guilt and temptation. Their relationship is tested as it shifts due to Paul's new disability, where insecurities creep in and tensions mount.

Elizabeth Shepherd’s character, Jane, consistently sews seeds of doubt, crossing the thin line between friend and foe as she maintains a polished and pleasant exterior while harbouring ulterior motives. Shepherd delivers an exceptional performance, oscillating between being a dutiful helper and a manipulative schemer, stirring up uncertain dynamics within the household.

Filmed in black and white, Blind Corner is stylistically sleek, capturing the sombre tone of the unfolding drama with lush cinematography that breathes life into the streets of 1960s London. The film pairs atmospheric lighting with tight camera angles, enhancing the overall sense of tension, danger, and claustrophobia. The incorporation of high-quality set designs, sharp sound effects and, occasionally, an eerie silence amplifies the suspense, and going hand in hand with the thrilling narrative.

Gerald Thomas, the cinematographer, uses creative ways to portray Paul's blindness, effectively conveying the protagonist's perspective and rendering the viewer almost as helpless as Paul himself. Paul, while sidelined by his disability, uses his heightened remaining senses and wit to navigate unprecedented situations, making for a rich and thrilling viewer experience.

The film features engaging dialogue, expertly penned by Leigh Vance, revealing deep-seated fear and suspicion simmering beneath the surface of everyday interactions. Alongside this grappling dialogue, the haunting yet beautiful music composed by Tony Crombie adds more depth to the film. As a backdrop to Paul's state of vulnerability, the music serves as a tool for suspense, amplifying the film's overall mood.

As viewers delve into Blind Corner, they find themselves on a thrilling journey where trust is a rare commodity, and deception lies just beneath the surface. The suspense is skillfully woven into the narrative, unraveling slowly and holding the audience's interest right until the end. Blind Corner is not just about the suspense of a crime plot; it's an emotionally robust and dramatic exploration of relationships tested under the strain of sudden disability and manipulation. It remains an unsung piece of classic British cinema that will keep viewers hooked from start to finish.