Brief Encounter (1945) ***

Very British and very of its time, still its charms are plenty thanks to Celia Johnson and Mr. Lean of course.

Le Plaisir (1952) **

Dazzling camera work, but a cold clinical look at different aspects of "l'amour".

The Whole Town's Talking (1935) **

Edward G. does double duty in this so-so screwball dramedy. Kind of shocked this wasn't re-made by this guy.

Blind Alley (1939) **

Well acted, though heavy handed, melo-noir about a killer holed up in a shrink's lake house. Comical to note how Hollywood bought the Freudian mythos hook line and sinker. Psychiatrist as super hero.

The Death of Stalin (2017) **

Well made take on the maneuverings in the USSR once Stalin was out. Nice to see Michael Palin and Steve Buscemi get well deserved choice roles.

Winter Light (1963) *

Bergman talkfest is completely un-engrossing.

Topkapi (1964) *

The actual heist is superbly done but the rest of the film is surprisingly sloppy. Disappointing overall.

Ben-Hur (1959) **

It's actually pretty good for the first two thirds (except for Hugh Griffith) and of course the chariot race sequence is unparalleled, but that last third really drags. Terrific use of the wide screen by Wyler.

Hour of Glory (1949) **

Lesser Archers production, still has some imaginative sequences, is lovingly photographed in black and white and has the compelling Kathleen Byron.

Kinetta (2005) *

Nothing to see here. Just check out Lanthimos' other better films.