"The Prisoner of Second Avenue", directed by Melvin Frank

Movie, 1974

Comedy about power and work relations in a married couple suddenly exposed to economic hardship. Some excellent acting and a few decent scenes, although this film rather skates over some hefty issues in a way which suggests there's no problem with, say, metal illness. Things feel a little rushed and insubstantial as a result, although the film's perfectly entertaining if you can look past these niggles. A movie which feels as if its been lifted from a play (it was) and a little claustrophobic with it.

"Young Frankenstein", directed Mel Brooks

Movie, 1974

Broad affectionate parody of Universal Horror films, with silly gags which feel both of their time and still worthy of a good chuckle, as Wilder, Feldman and co go through their paces. This is also a terrific looking film, wonderfully recreating the atmosphere of the setting of the original movies, nowhere more so than in the village and villager scenes, most ably led by the mechanically challenged Chief of Police. Lovers of the source films may have an advantage watching this and getting the jokes, but there's enough to keep all amused.

"Nada", directed Claude Chabrol

Thriller, 1974

Political kidnap thriller in which the politics are never really made explicit and are pushed out in favour of some fairly poorly realised relationships, particularly those involving the aging Epaulard. There's lots of gloomy drinking in gloomy flats with gloomy furniture and unfinished baguettes. There are also lightly scathing views of people all round - while the police are clearly reprehensible, the Nada Gang aren't much better. Not a great film, all in all, though quite engaging.