The Four Feathers (1978)

 

When British Lieutenant Faversham resigns his commission rather than fight in the 1882 Sudan war, his army pals present him with the four white feathers of cowardice. 

Superior TV production of the popular novel is well-made with an appropriately selected cast, but is a bit lacking in the drama department.

Halliwell: "An effective TV movie..."

 

The Haunting (1963)

A scientist doing research on the paranormal invites two women to a haunted mansion, and one of the participants soon starts losing her mind.

This ghost story works effectively with cinematic shocks only, supported by excellent cinematography, but the plot barely makes sense, and Julie Harris' performance is so intense - and irritating, you can consider it over-the-top.

Halliwell*: "Quite frightening but exhausting and humourless melodrama with a lot of suspense, no visible spooks, and not enough plot for its length. The wide screen is a disadvantage."

Maltin***1/2: "Don't see this one alone!"