See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989) Watch Online Free

A murder takes place in the shop of David Lyons, a deaf man who fails to hear the gunshot being fired. Outside, blind man Wally Karue hears the shot but cannot see the perpetrator. Both are arrested, but escape to form an unlikely partnership. Being chased by both the law AND the original killers, can the pair work together to outwit them all?

See No Evil, Hear No Evil is a 1989 comedy film directed by Arthur Hiller, featuring the dynamic duo of Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor. The story revolves around two men with disabilities who become unlikely partners in solving a crime.

Dave Lyons (Gene Wilder) is a deaf man who operates a newsstand in New York City. Wally Karue (Richard Pryor) is a blind man who works as a hot dog vendor nearby. Their paths cross when a murder occurs in front of their respective stands. Dave witnesses the crime but cannot hear the assailant, while Wally hears the crime but cannot see the perpetrator. The police, unable to obtain clear evidence, arrest both men as suspects. To clear their names and find the real killer, Dave and Wally must rely on their unique abilities and form an unexpected partnership.

The film’s narrative is a blend of slapstick comedy and crime-solving, with the central premise exploring how the protagonists navigate their disabilities to uncover the truth. The chemistry between Wilder and Pryor is evident, with their performances providing both humor and heart to the story. However, some critics have noted that the film’s plot can feel disjointed at times, with the script lacking the sharpness of their previous collaborations.

Main Themes

Disability and Perception

A central theme in See No Evil, Hear No Evil is the exploration of disability and how it shapes perception. The film challenges stereotypes by portraying the protagonists as capable individuals who, despite their impairments, are resourceful and resilient. This theme encourages viewers to reconsider preconceived notions about disability and highlights the importance of understanding and empathy.

Friendship and Teamwork

The evolving friendship between Dave and Wally underscores the theme of teamwork. Despite their initial misunderstandings and differences, they learn to rely on each other’s strengths. Their partnership exemplifies how collaboration and mutual support can overcome challenges, leading to personal growth and success.

Justice and Integrity

The pursuit of justice is another significant theme in the film. Dave and Wally’s determination to clear their names and bring the real criminals to justice highlights the importance of integrity and standing up for what is right, even when faced with adversity.

Impact of the Movie

Upon its release, See No Evil, Hear No Evil received mixed reviews from critics. While the performances of Wilder and Pryor were praised, some critics felt that the film did not fully capitalize on the potential of its premise. Roger Ebert, for instance, noted that the film chooses instead to plug the characters into a dumb plot about industrial espionage, suggesting that the narrative could have been more inventive.

Despite the mixed critical reception, the film has garnered a cult following over the years. Audiences appreciate the comedic chemistry between the leads and the film’s lighthearted approach to serious themes. It remains a notable entry in the comedy genre, particularly for fans of Wilder and Pryor’s collaborations.

7 Reasons to Watch See No Evil, Hear No Evil

1. Dynamic Lead Performances
   • Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor deliver exceptional performances, showcasing their comedic timing and chemistry. Their portrayal of Dave and Wally brings depth and humor to the film, making their characters both relatable and entertaining.
   • The duo’s ability to navigate their disabilities while solving a crime adds a unique layer to their performances, highlighting their versatility and commitment to their roles.
2. Exploration of Disability
   • The film offers a nuanced portrayal of disability, challenging stereotypes and providing insight into the experiences of individuals with impairments. This perspective encourages empathy and understanding among viewers.
   • By focusing on the protagonists’ abilities rather than their disabilities, the film promotes a message of inclusivity and the value of diverse perspectives.
3. Humorous Script
   • The screenplay is filled with witty dialogue and comedic situations that keep the audience engaged. The humor is both clever and accessible, appealing to a wide range of viewers.
   • The comedic elements are well-timed, with physical gags and situational humor that complement the film’s themes and character development.
4. Engaging Plot
   • The storyline is a blend of comedy and crime-solving, offering a fresh take on the buddy cop genre. The plot is engaging, with twists and turns that keep the audience guessing.
   • The narrative effectively balances humor with suspense, ensuring that the film remains entertaining throughout its runtime.
5. Strong Supporting Cast
   • The film features a talented supporting cast that adds depth to the story. Characters like Eve (Joan Severance) and Inspector Kennesaw (Alan North) contribute to the film’s dynamic, providing both conflict and support to the protagonists.
   • The supporting characters are well-developed, with their own motivations and arcs that enrich the main storyline.
6. Direction by Arthur Hiller
   • Arthur Hiller’s direction ensures that the film maintains a steady pace and tone, effectively blending comedy with action. His experience in the genre is evident, as he skillfully navigates the film’s themes and character dynamics.
   • Hiller’s direction allows the film to explore serious themes while maintaining a lighthearted atmosphere, striking a balance that appeals to a broad audience.
7. Cultural Significance
   • See No Evil, Hear No Evil holds a place in cinematic history as a notable collaboration between two comedy legends. It reflects the era’s approach to comedy and disability representation in film.
   • The film’s impact extends beyond entertainment, sparking discussions about representation and the portrayal of disabilities in media, contributing to the broader conversation about inclusivity in Hollywood. Despite its mixed critical reception, the film has gained a cult following, particularly among fans of Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor, and remains an important part of their legacy

How Will You Feel After Watching See No Evil, Hear No Evil?

After watching See No Evil, Hear No Evil, you will likely feel a sense of enjoyment and amusement. The film’s light-hearted tone, paired with the comedic genius of Wilder and Pryor, ensures that it is an entertaining experience from start to finish. The dynamic between the two leads is heartwarming and funny, and their ability to navigate their disabilities while solving a crime adds a refreshing layer to the typical buddy comedy formula.

You’ll also likely feel uplifted by the film’s positive message about teamwork and overcoming adversity. Despite their disabilities, Dave and Wally show that resourcefulness, courage, and friendship can help them tackle even the most challenging situations. The film’s exploration of these themes, combined with its humor, will leave you with a sense of satisfaction and perhaps a deeper appreciation for the abilities and resilience of individuals with disabilities.

Overall, See No Evil, Hear No Evil provides a fun, feel-good experience that balances comedy with meaningful themes. You’ll walk away from the film entertained, with a smile on your face, and perhaps even inspired by the unlikely heroes who prove that anything is possible when you work together.