Blindfold (1966 film)
Blindfold is a 1966 American neo-noir suspense film directed by Philip Dunne and starring Rock Hudson and Claudia Cardinale.
Plot Summary:
Dr. Bartholomew Snow (Rock Hudson), a New York City psychiatrist, is unexpectedly recruited by a mysterious government agency, led by General Pratt (Jack Warden), to evaluate a brilliant but eccentric scientist named Arthur Vincenti (Alejandro Rey). Vincenti possesses vital knowledge for national security, but refuses to divulge it except to someone he trusts implicitly. Snow, chosen because he is considered apolitical and reliable, is tasked with assessing Vincenti's mental state while being kept in the dark about the nature of the scientist's work and the agency's specific needs.
As the title suggests, Snow is often "blindfolded" – kept uninformed and disoriented – during his interactions with the agency and Vincenti. He is transported to a secluded, heavily guarded location for these sessions. Further complicating matters is Vincenti's beautiful, enigmatic sister, Vicky (Claudia Cardinale), with whom Snow becomes romantically involved.
The film follows Snow as he attempts to unravel the truth behind Vincenti's situation, the agency's motives, and the nature of the threat they are trying to prevent. He faces danger, deception, and a growing sense of unease as he navigates the shadowy world of espionage and psychological manipulation. Ultimately, Snow must decide who to trust and what actions to take to protect himself and the woman he has come to care for.
Cast:
- Rock Hudson as Dr. Bartholomew Snow
- Claudia Cardinale as Vicky Vincenti
- Jack Warden as General Pratt
- Alejandro Rey as Arthur Vincenti
- Guy Stockwell as Fitzpatrick
- Anne Seymour as Smitty
- H.M. Wynant as Harrigan
Production:
Blindfold was based on the novel of the same name by Lucille Fletcher. The film was shot in various locations, including New York City and Arizona.
Reception:
The film received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised the performances of Hudson and Cardinale and the film's suspenseful atmosphere, while others found the plot convoluted and the execution uneven.
Genre:
Neo-noir, Suspense, Mystery, Comedy
Themes:
The film explores themes of trust, deception, government secrecy, and the manipulation of individuals for political gain.