Extreme changes in a man’s personality are explored in The Ticket, starring Dan Stevens as James, a blind person who suddenly can see everything around him. When blind, James (Stevens) seems adjusted to his situation, although he depends a great deal on his loving wife (Malin Akerman). He has a best friend (Oliver Platt), a cute young son (Skylar Gaertner), and a job he can do over the phone. But when he can see -- because of an unusual tumor change – James soon becomes a very different person. Not quite Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but definitely not a hero.   

The contrasting scenes showing James’ happiness at being able to see and his grief at losing his sight come across as remarkably impressive and reveal the depth of Stevens’ acting talent. This versatile actor is on a roll now. I first saw him in Downton Abbey and was so disappointed when his noble character had a tragic accident. And I’ve enjoyed his diverse performances since then in movies like Criminal Activities and The Guest. Plus, I understand he’s even one of the co-stars in Disney’s new Beauty and the Beast musical.

But I digress. Back to The Ticket.      

To have eyesight should be a boon

but it could also cause one’s ruin.

The Ticket deals with one such case:

a once blind man and loss of grace.

When he can see, he starts to dwell

on things that lead him straight to Hell.

Money, prestige and other stuff

of which he never has enough.

We’re not too sure about his job.

But feel his soul is up to rob.

His wife and friend he soon betrays.

Will he regret his wayward ways?

With Dan Stevens in this lead role,

heightened drama becomes the goal.

But a good script would help this man.

Yes, it’s needed even by Dan.

And that brings us to my problems with The Ticket. Some important things are missing, which annoyed me while watching this uneven offering. For example, how was James able to earn a promotion so quickly? What was in the flyer that caused such a ruckus at his workplace? Those questions and more took me out of the film. And the unsatisfying ending left me shaking my head in frustration.     

Still, if you are a Dan Stevens fan, don’t miss this one.

The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision. --- Helen Keller

 To be blind and beloved may, in this world where nothing is perfect, be among the most exquisite forms of happiness. --- Victor Hugo

(Released by Shout! Factory. Not rated by MPAA.)

For more information about The Ticket, go to the IMDb or Rotten Tomatoes website.