Blink (1994)

This is a taut psychological thriller that contains several distinctive elements that make it a worthy candidate for the "best movies you've probably never seen" file. First, there's the genuine chemistry between leads Aidan Quinn and Madeleine Stowe, casting that works just as well here as it did in their previous film together, Stakeout (1987). They're the Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan of the B-movie set and should probably work together again. Second, director Michael Apted makes creative use of the movie's central visual idea of a woman only half-witnessing a murder because her eyesight, recently restored, isn't up to full function yet. The medical concept of "delayed vision," which could be mistaken as one artificially contrived for the film, is an actual documented condition with which Alfred Hitchcock would have had a blast. Lastly, there's the unexpected and wholly welcome use of Irish roots rock, as performed by the real-life Chicago outfit the Drovers. The trio of songs they contribute are an intense, haunting addition to the score, cleverly providing the female lead with an interesting and realistic profession while reflecting on the characters' ethnic roots, bringing more depth and charm to the proceedings. Blink isn't the one film for which Apted will be remembered, but it's a stout, well-crafted genre flick that's definitely worth a look. Screenwriter Dana Stevens is also an actress who played a role in another film from Apted in the same year, Nell (1994). ~ Karl Williams, All Movie Guide