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Peter Firth, in an amazing film debut, plays a disturbed 17-year-old who blinds six horses late one night. Richard Burton, with some reluctance, becomes his psychiatrist/therapist and attempts to wrench from him the meaning behind this horrible act, as well as wrest him from his demons, in the hopes that he might live a somewhat normal life. The story itself, based on and taken mostly intact from the Tony-award winning play of the same name, is intriguing. I have seen the play delivered with great power. Indeed, whole sections of it are mesmerizing, launching into the taboo connection between religion and art, and a parent's influence on their child. Unfortunately, the weaknesses are stunning -- namely that the psychiatrist finds himself longing for the wildness of this creature in such a way that it sends him into a downspiral of confidence in his own abilities. Although he voices this very opinion, one is led, in an unintentional way, to wonder who is the crazy one here. The weaknesses can be overlooked when the performances, and the settling in of the plot are allowed to absorb the viewer. Unfortunately, Burton's performance right from the opening credits is overwrought and distracting. He won much praise for his performance at the time, and because of that i have to wonder if our tastes haven't evolved towards a more realistic film presentation. On the other hand, having seen the play delivered well, i can't help but think that his performance is overwrought even for the stage. This is balanced by the astute performance of Firth (who, by the way, had already starred in the play version for six years), the strength of whole sections of the story, and the haunting way in which the play was translated to film.Read full review
I don't know if this film is entertaining for everyone. I found it amazing. The story revolves around a boy's journey through his psychiatric troubles. He blinded several horses for which he was caring. Peter Firth is the actor who portrays the young man (17 y.o.). He does a superb job. Especially considering he does about half the film while totally naked. Richard Burton is his psychiatrist. Their interactions are what provides the plot. Each has their individual musings and dreams which revolve around their interactions. It is a film well worth watching.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I would have preferred the new West End version but it has not been made into a DVD so this was somewhat of a last resort. I certainly like the fact that Shaffer did the screenplay and the Richard Burton/Peter Firth performance's are certainly credible. What doesn't work is the overall realism of the version. There is much theatricality about EQUUS that is completely lost with realistic film. The blinding scene for instance is a total waste of time and is completely without impact. Rather than go without this version is ok, if a stage version ever becomes available however, I recommend grabbing it!
Nominated for 5 Academy Awards in 1978. Brilliant movie. Some scenes are highly graphic and hard to watch. About a young man obsessed with horses who is being treated by a psychiatrist (Richard Burton). Thanks.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Richard Burton and Peter Firth are terrific in this disturbing adult film. Not to everyone’s taste. Significant nudity, language and animal (faux of course) brutality
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned