Pandora and the Flying Dutchman (1951) ***

Superbly photographed, stylishly directed fantasy with the lovely Ava Gardner looking never better. One of Mr.Cardiff's triumphs.

The Tenant (1976) ***

Filmed with a mix of American and French actors (some dubbed by American actors) this is a quirky, interesting tale of a mild mannered office clerk driven mad by Parisian apartment life and troublesome neighbors.

Any Number Can Win (1963) ***

With a couple of movie icons and the Riviera does it matter that there are gaping plot holes in this stylish heist flick? Pas du tout.

Identity (2003) **

The first half is a terrific neo-noir with a stellar cast. Unfortunately there IS a second half.

The Cat's Meow (2001) **

Well made period piece about early Hollywood shenanigans but a crucial role is distractingly miscast. Nice attempt by Mr. Bogdanovich to avenge Orson vis-a-vis Hearst?

The Man Who Killed Don Quixote (2018) **

As usual with Gilliam films it is beautifully shot, well cast and produced but until the last 15 minutes it's muddled and not engaging. Overall disappointing.

The Circle (1957) **

Nifty Brit-noir whodunnit has a top cast and plenty of twists to keep you guessing.

Death Takes a Holiday (1934) **

Talky and stagy but the main problem is the casting of the leads which sinks the picture. Otherwise well produced little fantasy.

Secret Agent (1936) **

Overall a little too slapdash. It seems like Hitch was only interested in a handful of scenes and the rest of the picture didn't matter. This might have been a classic had he remade it in the 50's and took his time. Still, that handful is worth it.

Between the Lines (1977) ***

Terrific ensemble cast in a near documentary look at mid-70's mores. Painfully accurate.

The River (1951) ***

A visual feast marred by the odd mix of professional and amateur actors that doesn't quite work. A beautiful experiment.