This cult classic is well-remembered by people of a certain age who were captivated by its first TV screening all those years ago, but criminally overlooked by the majority of film lovers. Starring Richard Burton and Lee Remick, this is a tightly-wound thriller that is utterly mesmerising.
Burton plays troubled writer John Morlar, and as the film starts we witness an attack by an assailant that leaves him in a seemingly braindead condition in hospital. French exchange officer Detective Brunel (Lino Ventura) attempts to find out what happened and why someone would want Morlar dead. It seems, however, that Morlar was convinced he was able to cause death and disaster just by thinking of it. Brunel tracks down his psychiatrist, Zonfeld (Remick), who wasn’t initially persuaded but started to believe when she witnessed a plane crashing into a building with Morlar apparently willing it to happen. Could Morlar do the things he believed and why does he still show strong vital signs when he should be in a vegetative state?
Despite being dated to the time by the fashions, The Medusa Touch is still as exhilarating as it was when we first saw it. Burton always gave magnetic performances and this is no exception. If anything, he excels as the antagonist who is struggling with the guilt of his power while also keen to wreak his most damning vengeance on a society that will – in his view – squander money on technical advances such as putting men in space while letting people starve. It’s hard not to agree with his argument really. Even with Burton dominating things, Lee Remick and Lino Ventura both make an impact in a cast list that features some very impressive names; Harry Andrews, Michael Horden, and Gordon Jackson all making an appearance.
Australian label Imprint has released the film with a decent amount of bonus features. Two informative commentaries (one exclusive to this release) complement the film brilliantly and the inclusion of some recollections from art director Peter Mullins are welcome, too. Some behind-the-scenes b-roll footage of the climactic destruction of the Abbey is interesting and gives the viewer more insight into the still-impressive set piece.
The Medusa Touch grips from the outset and is massively re-watchable even when you know all its secrets. An essential purchase.
The Medusa Touch is available on Blu-ray in Australia from Imprint.
