Hey everyone I hope all is well. Today I have a review of the worst film I’ve covered here on The Horror Syndicate. The Headless Eyes from 1971 known for its gritty style and sleazy, low-budget charm. The film is directed by Kent Bateman (yes, Jason Bateman’s father) and it’s one of the more boring films I’ve seen in awhile.
This movie was first brought to my attention by Nathan Thomas Milliner. He once said that growing up and going to the video store, that the cover of the VHS always caught his eye. Not only did it frighten him at a young age but maybe even helped propelled him into the genre that we all love.
A struggling artist named Arthur breaks into a woman’s apartment to steal money. She fights back and gouges out his eye. Driven insane by the trauma, Arthur becomes obsessed with eyes. He starts killing people and collecting their eyes to use in his artwork. The film follows his descent into madness through a series of violent murders and disturbing monologues.
The pacing drags, with long, awkward scenes that go nowhere, and the kills are clumsy and forgettable. The grimy New York setting adds to the film’s unpleasant tone, but not in a way that’s interesting—just uncomfortable. It tries to be edgy and artistic but mostly feels cheap and aimless. I found it hard to sit through and even harder to care about. I know the film doesn’t have a good reputation but still it’s just not very good, in the most respectable way possible.
With that said I don’t think I would recommend this film but for the horror fan that has to see everything recommended to them, like myself, give it a watch. Just prepare for your eyes to be hurting while watching it.
Also, here is a unique looking lobby card for the film. This kind of stuff is cool to find.
