Windows (1980)
#144 of the 150 Movies of 1980
Windows is the first and only film from acclaimed cinematographer Gordon Willis and it’s ridiculous to say the least. Willis began his career as a cameraman, and a damn good one at that. So the film looks tremendous. But it’s so over-the-top and ostentatious that it becomes a loose parody and unfortunately leads to the demise of what appears to be a good quality movie. But writer Barry Siegel crafted one of the most ludicrously male gaze films of 1980 and perhaps the entire decade. It’s a sleazy affair that can also lay blame on producer and garment manufacturer, Mike Lobell.
The film follows Emily, a young woman played by Talia Shire, who was brutally attacked in her New York apartment. During the assault, Emily is forced to beg and plead for mercy as she is recorded. Understandably filled with fear and depression following the altercation. Emily is consoled by her neighbor Andrea played by Elizabeth Ashley. This is where the film goes full-on crazy and things begin to unravel and relationships are not as they seem. If you were worried about spoilers, note that I don’t really care about them with movies like this so be prepared. But things devolve into this bizarre sinister lesbian obsession thing where it’s clear that the people behind the camera have zero idea about people of alternative lifestyles to their own.
While it may appear to be If there was ever a time when Adrian needed Rocky to come to her rescue this would have been it. Talia Shire does a passable job. But she is put through the ringer + it's pretty hard to watch. The material and the lack of directorial skill adds to the growing list of gripes I have with this movie.
With Gordon Willis being an acclaimed cinematographer, it's no wonder it looks so good. The shots have this neo-noir style that was coming back into popularity in the 80s. The music is also quite good, composed by Ennio Morricone, but it's used very minimally. That's all fine and good, but it's the plot that really drags this one down. Right off the bat, they thrust a rape at you, and it's a long, drawn-out, uncomfortable scene. A very bold move for a first-time director. Then, once Emily meets her neighbor, the film becomes this weird homophobic story that paints lesbians in an obsessive and predatory light: darkly insensitive, creepy, and all just so very gross. Willis was remorseful for making this picture, and I can see why. It's a good reason for this to be his only foray into direction.
Tread lightly if you're bothered by this kind of subject matter. You're not going to have a good time. Unfortunately, I can't recommend this one seriously. It's not the kind of picture you watch on date night, and it's definitely not a light watch. Maybe only watch it if you're extremely curious, but don't say I didn't warn you.
First Screening: January 18th, 1980
RottenPop Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1 Star): “Garbage day!"
Director: Gordon Willis
Writers: Barry Siegel
Composer: Ennio Morricone
Starring: Talia Shire, Elizabeth Ashley, Joe Cortese, and Kay Medford
Studios: United Artists
Country: America
Genres: Mystery
#Movies #BadMovies #Windows #TaliaShire #ElizabethAshley #NewYork #Films #Cinema