Film reviews part 13 (in order of viewing)

Only you (2018). 13&14.8.22. A simple plot but perfectly scripted and executed, although the cinematography is a little claustrophobic. 8/10

The mule (2018). 18&20.8.22. Good, entertaining, old-fashioned, formulaic thriller. 8/10

The Florida Project (2017). 22.8.22. A ‘must-see’ film, in documentary style, with incredible performances and a thought-provoking theme (children living with an awful mother and no money, but with unlimited freedom and, apparently, a very real joy). And the fashionable ‘premature ending’ works in this case. 8½/10

Around the world in 80 days (1956). 25-27.8.22. Sumptuous entertainment with numerous things to recommend it. OK, the story is pretty ridiculous at times but the acting is understated – Passepartout as played by Cantinflas is a revelation! – and the tone is light, with subtle, winning humour, and no scene outstaying its welcome. The imaginative end credits are an extra credit to the film. All it lacks really is the element of realism and, hence, genuine emotional involvement. 8½/10

The edge of Seventeen (2016). Exact watching date unknown. One of a million such teen comedies but smarter and generally more unpredictable than most. Spot-on acting from the actors playing the girl, the brother and the teacher. 7½/10

Who you think I am (2019). Exact watching date unknown. Engaging throughout and literate, but unoriginal and never really emotionally involving. 7/10

North by Northwest (1959). Exact watching date unknown. A good start, but it was soon apparent that this was in the same domain as a James Bond melodrama with all its ridiculous wisecracks, contrivances and coincidences. So if you like James Bond or are in the mood for some escapist candy you will probably like this. But judging this dated film as a serious, realistic thriller – and it seems I am very much in the minority here - I give it 6½/10.

Monos (2019). Exact watching date unknown. Trendy film-making with lots of pretty images and a semblance of a story. But meandering direction, sparse dialogue and characters not fleshed out make this very tepid. 6/10

Eastern Promises (2007). Exact watching date unknown. I predicted the main twist - which must mean it really is predictable! - but the film is involving and good quality, if a little more focused on plot and excitement than fleshing out the characters. The bathhouse fight is surely one of the most engaging in film. (Having subsequently read the Wikipedia article, that last comment seems to be the opinion of several other reviewers as well.) 7½/10

(Last black man in San Francisco (2019). 6.10.22. Watched 31 minutes. Really didn’t get on with it at all.)