Proving that not only Hollywood can remake films badly... (Wed)

Three Blind Mice (Australia) - three sailors on leave the night before they ship out to Iraq. Will they drink, see fiancées, procure prostitutes, fight, consider not going back? Of course - yes across the board. You may be thinking you've seen this film. And parts of it you likely have, albeit not set in Australia. Not at all bad I just didn't love it. Though there is a standout performance from the cocky yet lovable character that's required in this sort of film.

Kaifeck Murder, (Denmark) - moody, gothic thriller. Photographer arrives in a small hamlet to take shots for a book - young son in tow. Strange things start to happen and the locals aren't forthcoming. No, there's not a surprise birthday party in his future. Visually held my attention. Nothing especially scary or new I felt.

With a Little Help From Myself (France) - matriarch of a family with limited means/prospects tries to hold everyone (and herself) together under the pressures of life. Overall I thought it was pretty good, but will probably fall outside of my top 10 for the fest this year.

Small Crime (Cyprus) - on a small island the young local police officer would do anything to transfer to Athens. With limit respect for his authority and no real crime he's bored and frustrated. This potentially changes when an older man falls to his death. Accident or new world order conspiracy at work? Simple film with a slow pace, potential love and a minimum of crime. Great ad for their local tourism board too. A pleasant diversion - don't expect something transcendent and I think most folks will enjoy.

Final Arrangements (France) - Impossible to ignore the comparison with Departures, this film has a failed musician who takes up the funeral biz. Comedy allegedly follows as well as a new respect for living life while you can. Calling it a remake (as in the title) likely isn't fair as I get the impression the films were made at the same time. Sadly, it doesn't copy Departures in the sense of being a very good film. Even with the handicap I usually give French films I can't recommend this.