Films / October 9

The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976) / The Highwaymen (2019) / Magic (1978) / The Big Short (2017) / Escape To Athena (1979) / Eurovision Song Contest: The Story Of Fire Saga (2020) / Hell Drivers (1957)

The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976) A finely crafted story of revenge, family and redemption, simply but evocatively shot and balanced with a sense of humour. Savage bursts of violence are likewise contrasted with moments of sensitivity as characters reveal depth and humanity. An enduring classic.

The Highwaymen (2019) Absorbing, robust study of old fashioned policing leading the hunt for Bonnie and Clyde, even if the opening sections drag and the whole is too long. Nevertheless, Kevin Costner and Woody Harrelson are engaging companions and the story gradually gains depth.

Magic (1978) Smart William Goldman script, strong performances and eerie, mournful Jerry Goldsmith score are powerful elements for this Dead Of Night riff, which also includes a macabre, scary dummy. Yet the visual style is flat and lacks the atmosphere to deliver on the horror possibilities.

The Big Short (2017) Bitterly comic indictment of the financial crash, a scattershot view that cleverly ties together different stories and frequently (and effectively) breaks the fourth wall. The intelligent design, visuals and editing have a rough reality and the script creates equal laughs, outrage and poignancy.

Escape To Athena (1979)  A sometimes awkward blend of comedy, action and wartime resistance drama as a bizarre confluence of international actors attempt to steal treasure from under German noses. It certainly looks good and features a terrific motorbike chase through winding Rhodes streets.

Eurovision Song Contest: The Story Of Fire Saga (2020) Affection for the annual music festival that long ago became a self-parody, some funny sequences, and Rachel McAdams spirited performance, can't overcome the elongated running time. The riotous songs are both smart and fun.

Hell Drivers (1957) A pristine print of this classic, gritty action drama, provides a real appreciation for the technical skill of the sound mix and the mastery of Geoffrey Unsworth's gleaming photography. Muscular cast and direction provide a real punch to the fast-moving story.