Death, ghosts, sexual awakenings, murder most twisted and a pink rhinoceros … this week’s films have it all!
August 7
Death to Smoochy (2002)
Many critics despised this film about an evil kid’s show host (Robin Williams) plotting revenge on his innocent replacement (Edward Norton) but if you have a demented sense of humor and a taste for whimsy, you may fall in love with Smoochy. We did. HBO, 8pm
August 8
Dark Victory (1939)
The year 1939 brought us Gone With the Wind and The Wizard of Oz and this drama starring Bette Davis in her most unforgettable role. Judith Traherne is a socialite who rethinks her life after learning that she is dying of a brain tumor. Also stars George Brent and Humphrey Bogart. TCM, 2:30
August 9
The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947)
A young widow (Gene Tierny) moves into a haunted house with her daughter. The ghost, a former sea captain (Rex Harrison), prefers his solitude but when the woman is unmoved by his ghostly tricks, he grows to admire and love her. After a flesh and blood suitor begins to call, the captain must decide if he can let her go. Those eagerly awaiting the theatrical release of The Time Traveler’s Wife will find this fantasy pure magic. FMC, 11am
August 10
Me and You and Everyone We Know (2005)
This poetic and daring look at the difficulty of connection in the modern world earned awards at the Cannes and Sundance film festivals for writer/director Miranda July. It’s the story of two boys, their recently single father and the woman (played by July) who changes his life. IFC, 6:25pm
August 13
Se7en (1995)
In this dark and twisted thriller, a criminal draws attention to what he perceives as society’s shortcomings by using each of the seven deadly sins to kill his victims. As each new victim is discovered, a veteran cop and his new partner must combine their collective experiences to track the killer. Stars Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman. IFC, 8pm
Photo: ©2002 Warner Bros. and Filmfour Limited & Senator Entertainment
A.G. Credit: Takashi Seida
