De Palma Thriller (Press, 3 June 1982)

The new film "Blow Out," directed by Brian De Palma, is set to premiere at the Carlton on 4 June 1982. The opening sequence immediately establishes De Palma's signature style, featuring a voyeuristic perspective as a menacing stranger watches several naked couples engaged in sexual acts through a window. The scene escalates as the stranger raises a knife over one of the couples, and after a brief moment, the action shifts to a shower cubicle where another unsuspecting victim awaits. This tense introduction serves as a self-referential nod to De Palma’s earlier film, “Dressed to Kill,” and is framed within the context of a film set when a voice yells “cut,” punctuating the suspense. Despite the playful homage, the film manages to maintain a high level of shock and suspense, demonstrating De Palma's ability to deliver more intensity in five minutes than many films manage throughout their entirety. “Blow Out” encapsulates De Palma's distinctive filmmaking approach, characterised by its stylised narrative and larger-than-life characters. Brian De Palma, often described as a "master of the macabre," has faced criticism over his portrayal of sex and violence on screen. In his defence, he argues that film, as an art form, uniquely allows for the exploration of these themes, a capability not as readily available on television or stage. His body of work includes provocative stories such as “Sisters,” featuring a Siamese twin with a dark spirit, “Carrie,” which tells the tale of a telekinetic teenager seeking revenge, and the cult classic “Phantom of the Paradise,” which focuses on a disfigured rock star. His previous film, “Dressed to Kill,” included a notable scene involving a transsexual murderer. In “Blow Out,” De Palma collaborates again with Nancy Allen, who was also his wife at the time, alongside John Travolta. The two actors previously starred together in “Carrie,” and their pairing adds an element of intrigue to the film. Overall, “Blow Out” promises to be a thrilling addition to De Palma's filmography, continuing his exploration of complex and often unsettling themes with a distinctive flair.

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