Festival Offers 27 Films From 12 Countries (Press, 24 April 1986)

The 1986 Canterbury Film Festival is set to take place at the Westend from 25 April to 8 May 1986, showcasing a diverse selection of films. This year's festival features 27 films from 12 different countries, with a mix of genres that includes commercial, artistic, and avant-garde offerings. Among the notable entries are two films from prominent experimental directors: Sam Fuller’s thriller "White Dog" and Robert Altman’s tragedy "Streamers." The event will also introduce two New Zealand films, "Pallet on the Floor" and "Kingpin," which are making their Christchurch debuts. Additionally, Australian family film "Molly (the Singing Dog)" will be screened. The festival offers an early look at anticipated commercial releases such as Woody Allen's "The Purple Rose of Cairo" and "Plenty," featuring Meryl Streep. For those interested in more unconventional fare, the lineup includes John Waters' cult classics "Pink Flamingos" and "Female Trouble," along with "Ladies on the Rocks" and "Sweet Movie." Comedy and horror aficionados can enjoy "The Man with Two Brains," starring Steve Martin, and "Howling 2," which features Christopher Lee. Reservations for screenings at the Westend are recommended, with the possibility of last-minute alterations to the schedule. The festival's opening week features a variety of films, beginning with "Molly (The Singing Dog)" showcasing a unique story about a little girl and her singing dog, followed by "Dream Child," a fantasy about the inspiration behind "Alice in Wonderland." On the next day, attendees can view the provocative films "Pink Flamingos" and "Female Trouble," while a later screening presents "The Shooting Party," highlighting the social dynamics of pre-World War I England. Other highlights of the first week include "The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez," a drama about racial prejudice, and the controversial "White Dog" and "Streamers," which confront complex themes of violence and military life. The week continues with "La Crime (CoverUp)," a French film about a high-profile assassination, followed by "Edith’s Diary," a German portrayal of psychological distress. The unique artistry of Yukio Mishima is explored in "Mishima, A Life in Four Chapters," and the festival concludes with "Ladies on the Rocks," a Danish comedy that examines the challenges faced by two women trying to perform their cabaret act in rural areas. Overall, the festival promises a rich and varied cinematic experience, suitable for a wide range of tastes and interests in film.

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