The Eye [2008] : Blu-ray Review

The Movie Itself is directed by David Moreau and Xavier Palud. “The Eye” 2008 remake centers around “Sydney Wells” (Jessica Alba) and the aftermath of her most recent operation to restore her sight. By all medical accounts, the corneal transplant was a success. However, Sydney’s re acclimation to the world of the seeing isn’t going quite as smoothly as she might have hoped. Plagued with visions of dark figures and prophetic nightmares, Sydney is convinced something is wrong with her newly acquired eyes, and seeks to uncover the source of her donor.

“The Eye” is borne of the Asian — Hong Kong to be exact — horror film industry, and suffers the terrible fate of being yet another film in a long line of recent foreign horror transplants/remakes. The original, Gin Gwai [2002] wasn’t particularly stunning or scary — at least I didn’t think so — back when it debuted in 2002. In fact, the only reason I picked it up was due to the recent success of the Hollywood remake of The Ring [2002], and I was hoping for more quality remakes in the future.

As it stands, despite an enticing horror premise, The Eye — even it’s foreign predecessor — lacks any/all necessary emotional weight and realism that’s necessary to deliver bone-chilling scares and create a lasting horror masterpiece. For the majority of the running time, the film tends to plod along predictably towards the eventual, and explosive climax that was spoiled in the advertising campaign. Much to the viewer’s dismay, there are few pay-offs, and admittedly even fewer good frights to be had.

However, I will say that on a more positive note that I enjoyed the portrayal of “Sydney Wells”, even if Alba plays her a touch too “Plain Jane.” The character struck me as being the most realistic element in the film up until the moment she regained her sight — which happens rather early in the film. Of course, I’m not saying that Alba turns in an oscar-worthy performance in any way, but it appears as though both she and the filmmakers put a decent amount of work into highlighting “Sydney’s” strengths and limitations as a member of the visually impaired community.

Personally, I wasn’t frightened or thrilled by The Eye, but that’s not to say the film has got it all wrong. It just never managed to get under my skin, despite its earnest attempts.