SHOUT, THE

Taken from a story by “I, Claudius” author Robert Graves, this ambitious film about the supernatural marks the return to directing of the talented Polish expatriate Jerzy Skolimowski. Alan Bates portrays a mysterious tramp who tells a tale of the occult to young writer Tim Curry as they score a cricket match. The story recounts Bates' effect on a happy young couple (Susannah York and John Hurt) who fall under his spell. Constructed in a challenging, complex style of editing, THE SHOUT is especially interesting for its artistic and technical breakthroughs in the use of sound. Director Skolimowski has been compared to his compatriot Roman Polanski as both consistently integrate surreal elements into their dark tales. Skolimowski's films include “Barrier” (1966) and “Deep End” (1970). “Above all is Skolimowski's sense of humor, always evident even at the most unexpected moments.” – Sydney Film Festival Program