Eragon - Dir: Stefan Fangmeier

Very disappointing really and ultimately very Lord of the Rings-lite. There is a host of terrible acting including Robert Carlyle and John Malkovich who are unexpectedly hammy. Consummate professional Jeremy Irons tries as much as possible with the lines he has been given. Edward Speelers plays the eponymous Eragon and is verging on the side of irritating. The special effects are ropey in places. If you feel you must watch this, fast forward to the last 20 minutes, where the big dragon battle takes place. This is a JM THUMBS DOWN.

Manhunter - Dir: Michael Mann

In my journey to revisit all the past Hannibal Lecter movies, it would be imcomplete without re-viewing this title. Before Hopkins came along, Brian Cox had given a seriously understated and creepy performance as Lecter. Based on the Red Dragon book, this film is often regarded as pretty good, but how well does it stand up now? The answer is pretty good. There is no denying the 80s synth soundtrack really chafes, but Mann's evidence of being a good director shines through even back then. Good performances all round. Stick with it. This is a JM RECOMMENDS.