X: The Man with X-Ray Eyes (1963)

Movie Info

I see a hit!

Dr. James Xavier (Ray Milland) believes men can see beyond what is visible to the naked eye. By creating a chemical to open up the full vision spectrum, Xavier can see more than any human has ever conceived. When an accident set him on the run, Xavier realizes that being able to see all could be more of a curse than a gift.

Directed by Roger Corman, X: The Man with X-Ray Eyes is a sci-fi horror film. The movie was released to positive reviews and initially double-billed with Dementia-13. It has gained a cult following over the years.

Roger Corman is an odd director. Despite his diligence for affordable and underbudget films, he often makes rather quality films with what he is given. X: The Man with X-Ray Eyes is a perfect example of what Corman can do with little budget, a nice solid story, and decent stars.

It’s X-Ray Vision!!!!

The film is a good blend of science and horror. Xavier is brash and impulsive in his decision to test on himself and his actions lead to a rabbit hole of troubles. Not only does the character fight addiction, but he also pushes science too far with his actions. His desire to see makes him blind literally and figuratively, but he also is driven mad by this…and it leads to a horrific end.

Ray Milland fell hard over the years, but he always seemed to give what he could even in roles like this. While the character could have easily been a bland character, Milland pours everything into Xavier but he also gets to have some fun with the role when he realizes he can see through clothes. Don Rickles plays a heavy in the movie (which is different) and the movie also has a cameo by Corman regular Dick Miller. Veteran character actor Morris Ankrum has his last appearance in the film (he died in 1974).

Ray Milland’s forward thinking in an audition for a villain in GoldenEye

The movie’s special effects were also noted at the time of its release. Though simplistic, the “x-ray” vision view of Ray Milland’s character does a decent job explaining the character and what he’s seeing. If we had simply had the character telling the problems he’s experiencing, it would have had as much effect…but seeing the crazy vision that he’s supposed to see 24-7 explains his madness.

X: The Man with X-Ray Eyes is a solid movie that shows a good bridge between the sci-fi of the ’50s and the more modern approach of films in the late ’60s. With solid performances and a story that still works, X: The Man with X-Ray Eyes is worth seeking out. It is a fun and horrific story that has staying power.