From lighthearted banter to deeply serious

Michael Caine and Lawrence Olivier in Sleuth (US/United Kingdom, 1972, Twentieth Century Fox): two of the most powerfully charismatic actors of all time engaging in psychological warfare. I remember how hard my jaw hit the floor the first time I saw “Inspector Doppler” reveal himself. The dialogue shifts so seamlessly from lighthearted banter to deeply serious, and you’re never sure who’s lying. One of those rare movies I could show to literally anyone and know with absolute certainty that they will dig it. Available on YouTube and Putlocker.

I’ve seen Coraline (USA, 2009, Focus Features) dozens of times and always notice something new. It took years to shoot this, frame by frame, and the level of detail is astonishing. The story gets a little dark at times, which I find wonderfully appealing. Best part: Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders voicing two retired burlesque dancers with a penchant for schnauzer taxidermy. And the soundtrack is outstanding. Available on HBO Go and iTunes.

• Kirsten McCallion
• Writer