DVD Review: Hysterical Blindness (B)

Hysterical Blindness (2002)
Directed by Mira Nair
Starring Uma Thurman, Juliette Lewis, Gena Rowlands and Ben Gazzara
MPAA: UR
Grade: B

Review by Scott Standish

A bit of a pleasant surprise, Hysterical Blindness stars Juliette Lewis and Uma Thurman as two party gals that hit the Jersey bars almost every night. Adult life has quickly snuck up on these spandex wearing guy chasers as the 1980s draw to a close. Their attempts to find a prince that will sweep them off their feet are a little tragic and this film touches the heart.

Beth (Lewis) is a single mom and her late night bar crawling in search of a soul mate leaves her daughter alone too often. Debby (Thurman) is so desperate to land a man that her nerves are constantly exposed. Her performance is unsettling but effective. Debby's mother Virginia (the legendary Gena Rowlands) is a waitress that after meeting Nick (Ben Gazarra), senses a new lease on life. Nick loves her for who she is and wants to move the family down to Florida for a fresh start. Virginia is a strong willed woman that has survived tough times, but it's clear to see just how happy she is with Nick. Her performance here is fantastic, but of course, you would expect nothing less from Gena Rowlands.

All three gals are attempting to find happiness through their relationships with men, perhaps at the expense of their own personal growth. Debby and Beth have become so obsessive that they quickly scare men away and Virginia has learned to grown a little cold over the years in order to protect herself. Opportunities for change ultimately come from within and the girls decide to borrow strength from each other.

Hysterical Blindness is a bit dialogue heavy but director Mira Nair keeps the action moving along nicely. The film is based on a play by Laura Cahill and was executive produced by Thurman for HBO. Again, Hysterical Blindness is a very pleasant surprise and is definitely worth seeking out.

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