Neo Noir

AURORA (2011) (C+) - Another entry in our occasional series known as Fast Forward Theater, this Romanian touchstone is a serious challenge at three hours, chronicling the humdrum hours before and after a divorced man goes on a killing spree. Director Cristi Puiu follows up "The Death of Mr. Lazarescu," a droll but profoundly effective analysis of the state health system, with this character study. Puiu takes the lead role, showing little emotion but somehow conveying intense menace while, of all things, watching a woman peel potatoes.

Very little happens, thus the effectiveness of fast-forwarding through much of this mopiness. Cinephiles might be drawn to the shooting style, which favors cramped spaces and drawn-out scenes. But this truly is for die-hard fans of the Romanian New Wave only.

ANGEL FACE (1953) (B) - Good ol' Robert Mitchum burns up the screen as an ambulance driver lured into the drama of a rich family, in particular the sultry heiress (Jean Simmons) trying to lure him away from his steady gal (Mona Freeman). But Frank Jessup can't be tied down to just one woman. Mitchum smolders as the family's driver who plays all the angles.

A murder leads to a police investigation and then a trial. Can Frank keep his cool and avoid the femme fatale's trap? Stay tuned until the final shocking scene.

Spotted: Jim Backus (Thurston Howell III from "Gilligan's Island") as the scrappy district attorney.