The Cassandra Crossing - 3/5

This is a competent disaster movie, incorporating vehicle, disease, and political corruption in a well-balanced combo. Unfortunately much of the drama is moot. We know what the problems are that the characters are trying to figure out for much of the time, but it’s still played for suspense without realizing it’s undercut its own tension. There’s a good bait-and-switch mini-mystery and several exciting sequences that keep the film from going under, and at the end of the day it still lands on its feet.

Closest comparison: It’s like Unstoppable by way of Murder on the Orient Express (1974).

Setting: Disaster
Plot: Political Thriller
Tone: Thriller

Knights of the Round Table (1953) - 3/5

This is an old staple of the genre, presenting the most classic, iconic, and complete story of King Arthur. Unfortunately, its stage quality acting, costuming, and set design don’t age well. Beside the fact that Robert Taylor as Lancelot pulls a Kevin Costner (is the only one without a British accent), it’s a bit too bland if you’re already familiar with the story. On the whole, though, it’s a good place to start if you want the most straightforward account of the legend.