Three To See

Just a quick review of three films we have recently enjoyed. NO SPOILERS HERE - and my apologies to those who do not have access to streaming services like Amazon, Netflix and Disney +

The Courier, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, is based on the true story of British businessman Grenville Wynn, who was recruited by MI6 and worked for them in Russia in the 1960s. This was a clever film, and BC was excellent. Period 'sixties' details seemed pretty accurate to me. Not exactly a cosy, comfy story. But interesting nonetheless, to see how an ordinary bloke could get caught up in international espionage.****

Enola Holmes 2 is another escapade for Sherlock's younger sister. Millie Bobbie Brown and Henry Cavill reprise their roles as siblings., Helena Bonham Carter is Mother [in her usual HBC style] and Adeel Akhtar is once again the wonderful, slightly bemused Lestrade. The plot cleverly  centres on a genuine historic event. A bit OTT in places, but a great romp for all that. The last scene clearly sets things up for film #3. ****

This was the best of the three. A classic whodunit, using the 1952production of Ms Christie's "The Mousetrap" as a framework. The play celebrated its 70th anniversary last month - but you do not need to have seen it to enjoy the film. [This is the world's longest running play - and at the end, a member of the cast speaks to the audience and asks them not to tell anyone else whodunit. I saw it in 1977 - and I haven't ever blabbed.] The original cast included Richard [Dickie] Attenborough, and he's played very convincingly by Harris Dickinson. Saoirse Ronan is an amazing  WPC Constable Stalker. She loves old movies and her impersonation of Katherine Hepburn is flawless. The whole thing is full of tropes, and clever word play. We laughed so much. It's the sort of film you want to watch again to catch up on jokes you missed first time round. Filmed in fab 1950s locations. *****

If you are not into sport, and you have no interest in 'Celebrities' in the jungle, these three make for pleasant TV viewing. I hope you enjoy them as much as we did.