Proof (VHS, 1992)

This diabolically clever debut feature from writer-director Jocelyn Moorhouse swept the Australian Film Institute's 1991 annual awards. A blind photographer, his sexually frustrated housekeeper, and his only friend form an erotic and psychological triangle in this dry black comedy. Martin (Hugo Weaving) is a blind man who takes photographs as proof that the world he hears and touches is the same one that other people see. He lives as a quiet recluse, settled into a strict regiment with almost no contact with the outside world except for weekly visits from Celia (Geneviève Picot), his housekeeper. Celia is deeply in love with Martin and routinely attempts to seduce him, while he continuously rebuffs her advances. One day Martin befriends Andy (Russell Crowe), a dishwasher at a local Italian restaurant. Andy and Martin become close, and Martin asks Andy to describe his photos. He trusts Andy to tell the truth, and Andy becomes Martin's eyes, detailing the world around him. However, Celia's obsession with Martin becomes dangerous, and she plans to seduce Andy in an attempt to lure Martin back to her. When Martin catches Celia and Andy in their lie, he is left with the disturbing realization that Celia is out of control. However, this knowledge is also a catalyst for change, enabling him to free himself from Celia and move forward in his life. Weaving delivers a quiet and contemplative performance full of a rich and imaginative inner life, supported by Crowe, who is charismatic and charming in this early role.