I was riveted to the screen through almost every moment of this fascinating bio about gay WWI poet, Siegfried Sassoon. Though  British auteur Terence Davies is not always to everyone’s taste  I happen to think his Distant Voices, Still Lives is a true masterpiece and his non limier and distinctive, deeply personal  style of film making is used to great effect in this story to explore, love, war, identity, sexuality and human pain of the heart. A stellar British cast give the occasionally tart script real and sweet invigorating  life

This is a truly engaging animation that takes us through the cultural landscape of a young teenager in the late 1960’ when the Apollo 11 mission put men on the moon and history was made. I have a strong memory of these times and though not American the references and the litany of I life at the time have echo and resonate through every fibre. As accurate a lesson on the times as any you will see.

What better way in China to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CCP than being treated to a gorgeous looking, tense and exciting history lesson on its birth. From 50 members to the phenomenon that is now the People’s Republic of China is an incredible journey and whilst it may be propaganda it is also excellent entertainment in  which some of the best talent in China have been involved. People fighting for what they believe in is a powerful story  and added into the mix is  subterfuge, intrigue, car chases, fabulous locations and beautiful costumes. It was perfect viewing.