Mr Denning Drives North (1951)(dvd)

Synopsis: John Mills looked thoroughly brooding in the startling red-and-black poster for this film, and as a result audiences might have found themselves somewhat disappointed by this resolutely genteel drama, which can't seem to make up its mind if it's a comedy.

Mills is excellent as the father who accidentally bumps off his daughter's devious lover, but the acting honours are stolen by Sam Wanamaker as the truth-seeking boyfriend.

There's also a supporting cast of stalwarts (including Bernard Lee, Wilfrid Hyde White, Herbert Lom and Freda Jackson) that makes this film, and other of its era, so watchable today. Only Phyllis Calvert looks out of place.

Cast: John Mills, Phyllis Calvert
Runtime: 93 min