10 RILLINGTON PLACE    1971 Directed by Richard Fleischer. 111 minutes. In English with English subtitles.
This is a harrowing movie based on the real-life case of the British serial killer John Christie. But on the other hand, it isn't a slick exploitation flick attempting to cash in on a sensational subject. In fact, it has been referred to as "the zenith of British film-making". One of the most frightening things about this movie is how well it is crafted, how it is made of such precise details. It's directed by Richard Fleischer, who was always excellent with his actors... and in this case we have a perfect cast - Richard Attenborough, John Hurt and Judy Geeson all giving unforgettable performances.

The magic of this film is watching how the unbelievable events unfold, so I won't go into them even a bit. But I will say that it sticks to the true story with unnerving authenticity. This is about a kind of horror embedded in normalcy and respectability, which makes it even more disturbing. The late John Hurt is amazing in his role, and he himself cherished this film. He talked fondly about its "European sensibility," in contrast to how an American production would have bluntly handled the same material. What a dark journey! Without a doubt: an emotionally stirring and disturbing masterpiece. This will be a high-definition screening.