If You Could See What I Hear (1982) User Reviews

Happy memory movie

[budchadmusic · 7/10 · 18 January 2005]

This is one of those happy little Saturday afternoon kind of movies. It's romantic, funny and charming. Marc Singer is very entertaining as Tom Sullivan, a slightly oversexed musician with the innocence of a child learning life lessons in a most entertaining way.

I really wish I could find this on any format- The scene where the girl rubs Tom (Marc's) chest and he makes his teeth chatter is hysterical. The scene where he and Shari Belafonte are playing Beethoven's Pastoral Symp. is FANTASTIC - even to find a copy of just that or a soundtrack would be awesome. It's just a pleasant little movie.

If anyone has any access to this movie, I would be glad to compensate you for a copy. It has MANY happy memories for me.

Get this on DVD

[nittany5000 · 7/10 · 18 June 2007]

I can't agree more with the other person commenting on this great movie. This is one of several great movies from the early 80's that I have on VHS but that are falling apart and need to find a new audience on DVD.

I just don't see what people wait for when they make those decisions about what to digitize and what to leave people waiting for.

This movie is all heart and is held together by the very underrated Marc Singer (yes, that Marc Singer of Beastmaster fame. I swear you make one bad choice and you are branded for life). Telling the true story of blind singer/entertainer Tom Sullivan, Singer brings him to stunning life with a memorable performance that far few were ever able to see.

Let's do what we can to get this great story on DVD for a new generation to enjoy.

Funny, yet touching

[epcthree · 8/10 · 5 October 2006]

I was actually familiar with Tom Sullivan before the film came out. I believe I saw him performing on a talk show and I also remember him appearing in a M*A*S*H episode (Hawkeye loses his sight temporarily and deals with character played by Sullivan - of course also blinded - as a patient).

Bottom line for me is that the film always makes me laugh, and the closing scene with the little girl (in real life an event which actually took place with his daughter) never doesn't make me tear up. Singer's performance is excellent, but to me R.H. Thomson steals the film as Tom's friend; Will Sly. As for those falling in love with Shari Belafonte from this film, the line forms to the left! I give it an 8 out of 10, frankly only because watching it today, some of the humor is pretty sophomoric. That being said, let it go and enjoy a fun film!

Feel good movie

[TerrierMom · 20 January 2005]

I was 14 or 15 when this movie came out, and I fell in love with it, and with Marc Singer. I watched it, like so many others, many times on cable in the mid to late '80s. For those looking for the movie, keep an eye out for it, it is occasionally shown on some cable networks. Every few months or so, IIRC. I'm not exactly sure which network, but I believe I've seen it on AMC, Starz:Love Stories and possibly the W-e Network. People with TIVO might have luck putting it on a wish list. I found it by going to Zap 2 it's website and searching there by title. It takes some patience and time, but it is possible to find a showing which could then be taped or TIVO-ed. I too wish for a DVD release of this movie.

I have searched and searched

[kstock8 · 10/10 · 7 September 2005]

I saw this movie ages ago and I would love to see it again to find out if it was as good as I truly remember. I loved the scene with the socks (trying not to spoil) and I think I fell in love with Shari Bellafonte when I saw this. This is the last movie that Marc singer did before Beastmaster that I saw which is the last movie of his I liked.

I am on board for getting this released on DVD. If anyone has an idea how let me know. thanks

Tagline: The true story of a born winner!

Plot Outline: A light comedy/love story based on the life of blind musician Tom Sullivan.

I want my daughter to see it

[dcarson100 · 10/10 · 18 July 2007]

Why is this movie so underrated as to not be available on DVD? There is so much petty, meaningless drivel in media. On the tube, in the theaters and on DVD. I have to shudder at the direction these are taking our kids. An inspiration like Tom Sullivan, whether over-dramatized or not in the movie, deserves an audience by our children. And a revisiting for those of us. Those of us whose personal trials were actualized and overcome after being inspired by the courage of the movie's main character. America has been so let down and sold out in recent years. Kids these days need in their memories more stories of real life heroes.

one of the best movies ever made

[toddrandall68 · 10/10 · 14 December 2005]

I believe I saw this movie in 1983 when I was 15. I loved it. I fell in love with every character (especially Shari Belafonte), and their development within the movie. I saw an earlier comment that called this a "feel good" movie. Well, maybe. I don't think I felt particularly good at the end, but I did feel as though I had seen one of the best movies ever. In fact, I don't think I realized that Tom Sullivan was blind until the very end! I taped this movie from HBO once about 1995 but my friend taped a porno over it. Remember to remove those tabs! I feel empty without it. If there is a movement somewhere to get this movie on DVD I would surely like to join it. I can't believe it is not already. But considering the crap that is produced and then out on DVD, I am not surprised. I don't think that most of those in charge of releasing DVD would notice a gem of a movie if they saw it.A++++++

Wish I could see it again

[therol · 9 August 2004]

I always loved watching this movie. It always made me feel good, gave me hope and made me laugh. It is one of my all time favorite movies and would watch it over and aver again. Great acting by all characters. Now - I was looking to buy it and can't find it. Very sad. I am now the mother of a blind child and would love to watch it!!!! Sometimes I need to feel a little hope and would love to watch it. I would also love for my other children and my sons friends to see it. I is a timeless movie. I can't believe that I cant find it for sale and the video stores don't even rent it. If anyone knows when it will be on or if it is for sale anywhere please leave a note. Thanks

Please!

[CherCee · 10/10 · 7 July 2021]

Please, please, please release this on DVD!! I loved this movie and I remember seeing Tom Sullivan on Good Morning America. It has been decades since I have seen it, but it has stuck in my mind all of this time! Marc Singer and Shari Belafonte are both great in their roles.

A blind college student trying to live a normal life -- and succeeding.

[blay04 · 10/10 · 22 August 1999]

I saw this movie about 10+- times when it was first released in 1982 and LOVED it! I would like to see it again to see if it holds up. I especially liked the parts that showed him as a regular college student (not acting "handicapped") i.e., driving, making love, getting drunk, etc.

The funniest movie about a guy who doesn't know he's blind.

[bbdiver · 9/10 · 14 September 2003]

I haven't seen a movie of this quality in years. I have a copy on VHS that I bought from a video store, and I only watch it occasionally since it is irreplaceable. This story, and the acting behind it are truly outstanding. Marc Singer is amazing in how he portrays a blind man.

This movie was great! One to watch again and again!

[Lisa-LAM · 18 April 2003]

I also saw this on cable in 1983 and can't believe it is not currently available on DVD or video. It is a fun movie with alot of laughs, and at the same time a "heartwarming", feel-good movie. Very memorable from my teen years, but it is timeless in its comedy. Marc Singer plays the blind real-life Tom Sullivan. I remember one scene in particular that was hilarious: Tom (Marc Singer) was the most sober (and blind, too) of the group after they had been out all night drinking, he is behind the wheel and gets pulled over by a police officer. I have to see this movie again! What can we do to get it to be released on DVD/video???

I, too, wonder why this movie isn't available

[laserman52 · 10/10 · 31 December 2005]

I, too, wonder why this movie isn't available. I saw it back in the 80's on HBO. I laughed through most of it. It was probably the best look at one's self, not accepting the fact that his blindness was a disability or handicap in any way. 1 scene I remember quite vividly was when Tom Sullivan was putting his socks on, and his roommate told him that he was putting them on the wrong feet. He asked, "There's a right and a left to socks, too?". He said, "Well, of course there is!" Also, the acting, directing and producing of everyone involved in this movie was superb. It is a movie that I would love for my sons and grandson to see. This would be 1 movie that I think we all could agree on...LOL!!!

need to find this movie

[walkingdeer2000 · 10/10 · 3 February 2006]

i have a friend thats blind, we watched this movie together way back in 1988 . it was a beautiful movie and she and i both fell in love with it

i should have taped it or bought it then, but never thought there would come a time when i couldn't get it. my friend wants it very bad and i would like to get it for her . please tell me how i can get this movie.

i thought all of the actors were great , but we especially loved the star ,marc singer, he was very talented and very believable as a blind man.

all of the movie was interesting . my favorite scene was in the car and marc singer was driving and the others were drunk, they had cans tied behind the car and the policeman pulled them over, found out he was blind and asked why he was driving and he told them , all the rest of them were drunk. it was hilarious.

Excellent

[shannonefox · 10/10 · 24 December 2006]

I was twelve when I went to see this in the theater with a friend, and I can still vividly remember the movie after these many years. I find it difficult to believe it hasn't been released on DVD yet, and I hope it be released soon. This was one of those neat experiences where I didn't know anything about the film, so it was full of surprises for me. My friend and I were deciding what to see and the ad in the paper interested us. When the film first began, I had no idea the main character was blind (okay, I was twelve and didn't contemplate what the title meant) and when I discovered this in the opening scene, I can remember thinking, "Oh great, this is a story about a blind guy. How boring is this going to be?" Instead, I was blown away by the accomplishments and positive attitude the main character had despite his handicap, especially when in the end I realized it was a true story. And it is funny and also heartwarming. I would love to see it again.

A Favorite!

[LightbyGrace · 27 November 2004]

I am also one who watched this movie multiple times when it ran on cable in the 80's...It is one of my favorites. I have never understood why it was skewered by critics. In one of my Video Guides it was actually given a turkey (meaning that they thought it was so bad that it didn't even deserve a rating using the star system!).

I have the book that the movie was based on. But I actually enjoy the movie more. Marc Singer is wonderful as Tom Sullivan...All of the actors were good in this film, the story is uplifting and I still enjoy watching it. For those looking for it on video...check out Ebay and half.com :) :)

LightByGrace

One Of The Best.

[[e-mail] · 10/10 · 19 February 2007]

I am and older person and have seen many movies in my life. I believe this is one of the best of the best. Both funny and sad at the same time. The cast in it's entirety carry this movie to a delightful ending From what I understand a true story of a remarkable living person. I was able to order a DVD of this movie. It cost a pretty penny, But to this old goat, its worth every penny of it. No,I don't sell them.But I can tell you where to get them. I have really said all I can say about this film but due to minimum limits on here I must ramble on for a while so I can get ten lines of text. I am not one of the so called movie critics they get on here can indeed say a lot of nothing about an other wise great film. Respectfully

Howard

I Love this movie

[sbdenney922 · 10/10 · 9 December 2006]

I have seen this movie at least 100 times. I love Marc Singer anyway. But the chemistry between he and Sarah Torgov is great. I would like more than anything to find the soundtrack to the movie. I have searched everywhere and have had no luck in finding it or whether one was made. But if there is anyone out there who knows if one is available, please contact me at [e-mail]. This is one of the best movies I've ever seen. If anyone is looking for it, look on ebay. I have found several VHS and a couple DVD copies. So they are out there. Thanks Tom Sullivan for letting your story be told. You are an inspiration to us all.

Awesome film

[mylar321 · 10/10 · 16 October 2007]

This has got to be one of my favorite films of all time. It covers the gamut of emotions from hilarious to a tear jerker. There are parts of this movie I will never forget and it was 1984 when I remember first seeing it. If it ever does come out on DVD I will definitely add it to my collection. Marc Singer pulled off playing a blind guy superbly and Shari Belifonte made me fall in love with her character. The whole cast came together to make this movie awesome. I don't remember the name of the character or actor that played his college friend but I do remember laughing at some of the best straight gags I have ever enjoyed in films. If you get a chance to see this movie and then don't... well.. all I could say is shame on you.

awesome movie

[dani29 · 29 May 2002]

I watched this movie over and over again back in 1983 when it was on cable, and I absolutely loved it. It's a shame it's not available on VHS or DVD because it is such a good movie. I would love to see it again.

I have been searching for this title for fifteen years

[Leezalee · 10/10 · 19 July 2007]

Hello, I am Lisa in North Carolina. I have just joined today and am very excited about it as you will read. I have actually been searching for this title for years to no avail until today. Strangely enough, not only had I not seen it nor heard of it, my German girlfriend in Germany told me about it about fifteen years ago. She was so convincing that it is a must see, the title has been embedded in my mind all of these years. I am so excited to know that it does in fact exist and it leaves me even more determined to find out how I can see it. From what I could read in all of the other comments, this is a must see movie! I believe that we all need to do something about it to get this on DVD! Are there any suggestions? I am excited to be here and to read all of the comments on movies that I have been wanting to see. Lisa Update! Guess what people? I found it however I am not allowed by the company's to release their information because they usually only deal with entertainment industry clientèle however they have given me permission on a one on one basis to allow their information should I be contacted for it and they will not turn you down to purchase this title on DVD or VHS! [e-mail]

I would watch this over and over if I could actually get a copy

[AlsExGal · 8/10 · 29 April 2016]

This film didn't make much money in the theaters, and that is possibly because it had a limited release and opened in April rather than winter or summer. It did run on HBO during the spring of 1983, then disappeared off of the face of the planet. It's a small film with big ideas and very much worth your time.

Tom Sullivan was actually born in 1947, so Tom was in college in the mid to late 60's. This film doesn't try to bring the story back in time. It plays just like it is happening present day, which in this case was 1982. Mark Singer plays Tom with real heart and humor. I read Roger Ebert's review of this film, and he apparently didn't like it at all. He talks about it being an endless series of frat boy-like jokes and bad behavior, but I think that is the point. Most college age boys engage in all kinds of bad behavior - in Tom's case, getting in a fight in an English style pub, trying to crash his girlfriend's sorority party by coming up through the sewer, making a speech on the campus lawn about the blind taking over one night when the lights go out, having a last night of passion with an ex flame while in a relationship with his future wife, etc. In short, Tom sees himself as a normal guy, not a handicapped guy, and people - at least people his own age - largely respond in kind.

The two exceptions? Tom proposes to a girl and she declines, not because she doesn't love him, but because she can't see them overcoming both his blindness and the other blockade society would put in their way. I'll let you watch and see what I mean. Also, towards the end of the film, Tom confronts a frightening situation that is so frightening mainly because he is blind. Afterwards, Tom then tells his future wife that he realizes now that people see him as a blind man. But don't think that the film ends on a downer like this, because there is one more humorous situation to come.

The film in its entirety is humorous and inspiring largely because it is based on a true story. I'd recommend it if you can ever find it. It is truly a shame that VCI or Shout Factory or some other company that often takes on good but orphaned films has never bothered to put this out on DVD. Highly recommended.

Don't hold Beast Master against this movie.

[pmhenderson · 10/10 · 23 June 2019]

Without doubt, this is one of the best movies from the 80's. Marc Singer role is singularly the best thing about it. I have watched this movie several times when it was on cable. It should be on DVD so that others can enjoy the hilarity and soul crushing sadness this movie pulls you through. In the end you are left feeling a silent smile crossing your lips. If you can find a someone who can get this movie saved for posterity please do so.

Great Movie

[freebird2064 · 10/10 · 21 May 2019]

I love this movie. I think it's a true story about a blind man who doesn't let his blindness stop him from doing anything and everything.

I have this movie

[bingogal · 9 April 2008]

I loved this movie and am lucky enough to have recorded it on VHS tape when it first came out on TV.

I recently made it into a DVD for safe keeping & converted it into an .avi file on one of my external hard drives, again, for safe keeping.

I have always enjoyed movies that were based on fact. I remember the real Tom Sullivan singing on TV shows all the time and was fascinated with the movie and the story of his early life.

It's a shame that I have to add more lines here in order to make a comment. This rule should be taken out, then more people might make comments.