Hammett (1982) **

Well produced Maltese Falcon wanna be is too self aware to be engaging. Fred Forrest is nowhere near as commanding as Bogie which doesn't help. Watchable.

Charulata (1964) ***

Chaste Victorian India chamber drama relies quite heavily on the face of the lovely Madhavi Mukherjee and some superb photography.

Iphigenia (1977) ***

Brings the great tragedy to life with superb cinematography and a terrific performance by Irene Pappas. A little too long, but worth it.

The Tailor of Panama (2001) **

High quality production doesn't quite hit it out of the park. Maybe at the time we could laugh at the notion of selling fake intel and those with the guns acting on it anyway, but Gulf War II quashed all such jocularity. (A similar fate befell Our Man In Havana.)

Days and Nights in the Forest (1970) ***

Subtle(?) examination of Indian social dynamics via a middle class weekend in the country scenario. Expertly paced, nuanced script, beautifully shot.

The Room (2003) **

It's not nearly as bad as it should be (or as this flick suggested) thanks to good cinematography and second unit work. Wiseau is at least interesting as an actor. Probably has the least erotic sex scenes in movie history.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains (1982) *

Seems exploitive of a very young Diane Lane as well as heavy handed with the script. Adds up to a not pleasant experience. Rock Follies did it better.

Blood from the Mummy's Tomb (1971) **

Typically well produced/shot Hammer production with a lovely Valerie Leon as the well preserved mummy.