A young woman with psychic powers aids the police in tracking down murderers; an expert in psychometry, she makes associations from an object through physical contact. However, the latest serial killer on her radar, a man who feeds on his victims' fear, is also psychic and his power may be greater than hers. A novel spin on "Eyes of Laura Mars" from writer-director Rockne S. O'Bannon, who also co-produced for Vestron Pictures, who released the film to Showtime in place of a theatrical run. Despite some lapses of logic in the plotting, a surprisingly good screamer, a bit over-the-top but still exceptional for the thriller-genre. O'Bannon has given the film a handsome look and his script has smart dialogue. In the lead, Ally Sheedy takes a while to warm up; she looks lovely here, and has a few choice moments of serious acting, but too often she relies on 'cute' or coy mannerisms. Supporting cast including Michael O'Keefe as a bachelor fireman who lives next door and Lauren Hutton as Sheedy's agent are also good. Portions of Henry Mancini's score are curiously reminiscent of his soundtrack for 1967's "Wait Until Dark". O'Bannon, the screenwriter of "Alien Nation" two years prior, continued working as a writer and director in television, and proved here he has keen instincts and a great eye for visuals.
Review of Fear
