Daphne du Maurier's 1971 novel, 'Don't Look Now', is a chilling tale of grief and supernatural elements. The story follows John and Laura, a couple struggling with the loss of their child, Christine. The 1973 film adaptation by Nicolas Roeg adds a poignant prologue, depicting the couple's recent tragedy. In this reimagining by Douglas Rintoul, the original cause of death remains meningitis, with Christine's lifeless body being discovered by John. The production opens with a reflective stage, a blue dress symbolizing a watery grave, and a haunting atmosphere. The adaptation, directed by Nell Leyshon, delves into the couple's guilt and John's callous attempts to move on. The story's foreboding is evident in every scene, from the encounter with the sisters claiming psychic visions to the couple's return to their honeymoon hotel room, highlighting the strain on their relationship. However, the stage production lacks the creeping dread, with supernatural elements falling flat. The set design, by Jess Curtis, switches between hotel room and restaurant, but the climax feels underwhelming. The costumes, inspired by the canals, and the mournful lighting by Jessie Addinall, emphasize the couple's absence. The script, while conveying sadness, fails to build suspense, with John's psychic episodes overshadowing the mystery surrounding Laura's surprise appearance with the sisters. Despite the performances, the story's emotional core is missed, leaving the audience with a sense of unease that is not fully realized.
