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Science fiction which questions the nature of existence itself provides a fascinating basis for a theme. Prior to X: THE MAN WITH THE X-RAY EYES, the only other film to explore this theme was Jack Arnold's profound THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING MAN (1957); both of these groundbreaking films paved the way for later endeavors like Stanley Kubrick's experimental 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY (1968). X: THE MAN WITH THE X-RAY EYES was released theatrically on September 1963. On network television at this time were two important sci-fi/fantasy series, Rod Serling's THE TWILIGHT ZONE and Joseph Stefano's THE OUTER LIMITS. This Roger Corman work is very much the same school of science fiction as both of those series, placing emphasis on strong writing, provocative drama, outstanding performances, and ensemble casting alike. Ray Milland as Dr. James Xavier sets the film's premise by noting that the human eye is only sensitive to 1/10th the spectrum of light, and wonders what would be seen if human vision were developed enough to perceive its full range. Unfortunately, as his range of vision increases more and more, his sensibilities prove inadequate to cope with both the indefinable apparitions he beholds and his radically altered perception of the physical world around him. The most significant and telling moment occurs when Dr. Xavier, hiding out from the law in a tenement basement apartment (for the accidental murder of a colleague), peers upward with his super-vision penetrating through the ceiling of his room and sees beyond the night sky, past the starry heavens, and beholds the very center of existence itself -- causing the awe-struck researcher to cry out in anguished torment. Later, with the authorities in hot pursuit, Dr. Xavier enters the tent of a road-show religious bible meeting and movingly tells the incredulous throng gathered within about what he has witnessed, evocatively describing the vision as a "great eye" at the core of the universe which sees and watches us all. The nihilistic ending of the film involves Dr. Xavier plucking out his eyeballs (now no longer recognizable as eyes) with the impassioned urging of a fanatical evangelist and his congregation; the image of Xavier's countenance freeze-frames to disclose his empty blood-red eye sockets, abruptly fading out to black (followed by the end credits). This would seem to reaffirm the timeworn homily that there are some things man was not meant to know (or tamper with), and many critics and filmgoers understandably found the conclusion somewhat discordant and incongruous with the ideas and events preceding. However, this restructured ending was mandated at the insistence of the studio heads, and is not the finale initially filmed. The original conclusion as intended had Dr. Xavier plucking out his eyeballs, and, looking around in confusion, crying "I can still see!" -- which sheds a different light -- for, not only had his expansive vision enabled Xavier to observe the infinite, but his heightened perception had evolved beyond the need of mere eyes for sight. X: THE MAN WITH THE X-RAY EYES was the third of three interesting works produced by American International Pictures (over a two year period) which starred Ray Milland. The other two films were Roger Corman's THE PREMATURE BURIAL (1962) and PANIC IN YEAR ZERO (1962) which Milland both starred in and directed. Watch for Don Rickles in a fine role, and listen for exotica composer Les Baxter's pulsating score.Read full review
Did you ever wish you had super powers like flying or having incredible strenght? In this feature, the subject is having the ability to have X-Ray vision. The power to see through walls and of course ladies dresses to name a few. Ray Milland is joined by cast members Harold J. Stone and Don Rickles in this story of science and the frailty of the human condition. In the end, the story ends with disastrous consequences. This is a true Harvey Corman (Director) classic. It has a moody feel to the production that helps move the story along and gives it a higher dollar production value to it. I liked this film and watched it at least five times. For something a bit out of the ordinary, I suggest and endorse "The Man with the X-Ray Eyes"
I remember this one from my childhood. Along with other great old movies starring Ray Milland, like; 'Panic in the Year Zero' and 'The Thing with Two Head,' this is just one of those that stands out in my early memories. The opening scene takes place in a laboratory, where Dr. James Xavier (Ray Milland) is just on the brink of a break through of an experimental drug that causes X-ray vision, while simultaneously, grant money is being eliminated for the Lab use and research. Dr. Xavier, feeling the pinch on time, attempt's to use the drug on Himself before the experiment is shut down. Before long, Dr. Xavier finds Himself fleeing from an accidental murder of His fellow project worker over the use of the drug on Himself and living Incognito through several different underground scene, from Circus freak to a backroom human x-ray diagnostic of the sick and poor, to gambling con-man. This movie is a must have for those who love a good 'B' rated Sci-Fi flick. ,BretRead full review
The ending shocked me as a kid and never forgot it. Got a copy to watch lately and it was fun (the ending still is a shock). Acting is good and special effects ok for the time.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I've loved this movie since I was a little kid. It was great to finally get it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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