ian j bell

This haunting and delightful film - intended for children but equally compelling for adults - tells the story of Natty Gann, a brave and resourceful young girl who traipses across Depression-era America to find her only relative, her long-lost dad. If that sounds depressing then think again. This is a gem of a film. It has Meredith Salenger in the lead role displaying a warmth and maturity to carry a role that may easily have overwhelmed a less gifted actress. How on earth she hasn't become a big star is completely beyond me. Offering commendable support is John Cusack as the older boy and drifter she befriends on her journey. Children's films so often tend to lean towards sentiment or easy endings but this uncompromising film, and yes, the language gets a little colourful at times but so what, has a depth to it that makes you root for the heroine to the very end. Natty Gann is simply a wonderful film for young and old alike.

A real hoot as barefaced on artist Charlie Tully (Dick Emery) goes on the run after pulling a fast one on the Mafia.

To cop it all, old pal Reggie has gone and bedded Jo Mason, nubile sister of London gangster Sid Sabbath. Reggie stashes their money in a Swiss account before tattooing the number on his girlfriend's bottom, only to find his own number is well and truly up.

Learning of his friend's plight Charlie sets to work for his share of the cash, donning an array of disguises as he makes the best of a bum deal.

It's seaside humour all the way as he ticks off the gags one by one on his way to claiming back the loot.

But of course, not everything goes according to plan. "I'm not that sort of girl," Jo Mason primly warns his bogus solicitor. Then again, however ... a share of the spoils calls her bluff, and as she bares all for the camera a quick peep at her bare bottom proves very costly as her psychotic brother catches him at it, leaving him more than just the Mafia to worry about.

This is one the Carry On team would have killed for. Enjoy