Quintet (1979)

During a future ice age, dying humanity occupies its remaining time by playing a board game called "Quintet." For one small group, this obsession is not enough; they play the game with living pieces ... and only the winner survives.

From memory: Leftfield sci-fi drama with a star cast is fascinating to watch, but seems to be nothing more than a by-the-side exercise for its director.

Halliwell (no star): "Dismayingly pretentious claptrap which did it's star's career no good at all."

Maltin**: "Pretentious, unappealing story...Not as puzzling as it is ponderous."

Woman Times Seven (1967)

Seven mini-stories of adultery: "Funeral Possession," a wayward widow at her husband's funeral; "Amateur Night," angry wife becomes streetwalker out of revenge; "Two Against One," seemingly prudish girl turns out otherwise; "Super Simone," wife vainly attempts to divert her over-engrossed writer husband; "At the Opera," a battle over a supposedly exclusive dress; "Suicides," a death pact; "Snow," would-be suitor is actually a private detective hired by jealous husband.

Slight and not really that amusing gender comedy without any depth; Shirley MacLaine is the only attraction in this anthology.

Halliwell (no star): "Humourless after-dinner entertainment."

Maltin***: "...some funny moments, some perceptive comments, but with that cast and director, it should have been much better."