Movie Overview
See No Evil, Hear No Evil is a 1989 comedy crime caper that reunites the iconic duo of Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder. Directed by Arthur Hiller, the film follows Dave, who is deaf, and Wally, who is blind, as they inadvertently become the sole witnesses to a brutal murder. While neither of them can fully describe the killer on their own, their combined perspectives make them the only ones who can identify the culprit. Unfortunately, the police view them with suspicion, forcing the mismatched pair to go on the run while being pursued by the actual assassins.
The chemistry between Wilder and Pryor drives the narrative, blending physical humor with the unique challenges faced by the protagonists. The cast also includes Joan Severance, who plays a pivotal role in the unfolding mystery. Arthur Hiller’s direction balances high-stakes action with the duo’s comedic misadventures, creating a tone that is both suspenseful and laugh-out-loud funny. The movie leans heavily into the buddy cop genre conventions, using the characters' disabilities to create a series of misunderstandings and close calls.
Despite its entertaining premise, See No Evil, Hear No Evil received mixed reviews from critics. While the audience score on IMDb sits at a respectable 6.8/10, the film holds a 29% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 44 on Metacritic. Critics often pointed to the reliance on slapstick humor over a tighter script, though the performances of the lead actors have been praised for their timing and energy. If you are looking to watch online or stream a piece of 1980s nostalgia that highlights the comedic genius of its stars, this movie is available on Netflix. It remains a cult favorite for those who appreciate classic screwball comedy.
