A Fistful of dynamite 1971

Starring: Rod Steiger

In 1913, a Mexican bandit and an ex-IRA explosives expert join forces to rob a bank.

Typical Sergio Leone fayre, is there any other kind? Rod Steiger is terrific, James Coburn creates a marvelous character and the music is spot on. As Spaghetti Westerns go, it's not bad, but you need to give yourself time to sit & enjoy it as it's very long. My only problem were the flashback scenes that never quite worked.           4/10

The Flamingo kid 1984

Starring: Matt Dillon

In 1963, a teenager comes of age while working at a beach club.

Billed as a romantic comedy, it never made me laugh and wasn't particularly romantic. It was watchable though, Matt Dillon was engaging and personable and Hector Elizondo as his father lifted every scene he was in. A bit like a frothy drink that looks great but doesn't have a lot of substance.        6/10   

Oliver 1968

Starring: Ron Moody

A musical version of Oliver Twist

A very well known version of this story but the first time I'd seen the whole film. Lavish, brilliantly choreographed, fabulous locations and songs that never miss the mark. Some of the acting misses the mark where as performances particularly by Moody & Reed are quite magnificent.        9/10

The Thief 1952

Starring: Ray Milland

A nuclear physicist is on the run from the FBI, who suspect him of being a spy.

Bizarre decision to make a full length movie with no dialogue whatsoever. At times, there's no dialogue seemingly only because, that's what the director had decided to do. Strange decision with any interest only being supplied by knowing looks and atmospheric music. Desperately dull.         1/10