Fade to Black (1980)

 

A shy, lonely film buff embarks on a killing spree against those who browbeat and betray him, all the while stalking his idol, a Marilyn Monroe lookalike.

From memory: An usual thriller with an interesting premise is at times creepy, suspenseful and disturbing; meant as a homage it includes many cinematic references.

Halliwell (no star): "Violent, off-beat thriller that makes black jokes at the expense of movies."

Maltin*1/2: "Interesting idea ruined by excessive violence, poor performance by Christopher. Marilyn Monroe lookalike Kerridge...is like a rose in a cesspool."

 

 

 

A Wedding (1978)

The daughter of a Louisville truck driver marries the scion of a very wealthy family, but reception at the family estate is boycotted by the invited guests.

From memory: This biting satire is a good display of Altman's mastery at directing a massive cast in chaos, but it lacks cohesion - and humor.

Halliwell* "Wide-ranging satirical comedy which despite excellent moments goes on far too long, is rather too black, and is sabotaged by the director's penchant for having fourteen people talking at the same time. An exhausting experience."

Maltin**1/2: "Unfocused look...some amusing moments and pointed characterizations, but doesn't quite jell."

Breaking Away (1979)

A small-town boy obsessed with the Italian cycling team vies for the affections of a college girl.

From memory: Amazingly entertaining and unpretentious teen comedy has a good cast and an excellent script.

Halliwell*: "Andy Hardy would have felt at home in this fragmented comedy of the American hinterland; 1979 audiences found it a welcome relief from the stronger brews to which they had become accustomed."

Maltin***1/2: "Winning, unpretentious film...Dooley stands out in first-rate cast as Christopher's bewildered father. This sleeper hit really comes to life with an audience."

It (1990)

 

 

In 1960, seven pre-teen outcasts fight an evil demon who poses as a child-killing clown. Thirty years later, they reunite to stop the demon once and for all when it returns to their hometown.

 

Lacklustre TV adaptation of Stephen King's mammoth novel doesn't spark any fright or thrills and goes too long for its undramatic ending; the children's sequences are superior to the 'present day' story.