Dying of the Light (2014)

Simplistic, one-dimensional thriller that was disowned by writer/director Paul Schrader and some of the cast. 

Nicolas Cage plays a CIA man intent on revenge after he was tortured by a terrorist 22 years previously. The unusual twist is that he is suffering from a form of dementia, which affects not only his memory, but also his moods and behaviour.

It has a low-budget feel and there’s very little action. It seems like a cut-price attempt to make a Jason Bourne film, but without Paul Greengrass’s directorial energy and skill. 

The dementia angle is surprisingly low-key in the plot. I was expecting it to be used as a rationale for all sorts of odd outbursts from Cage.

Like Crazy (2011)

Starring Felicity Jones (of Star Wars: Rogue One fame), this is a refreshingly different love story. Its main selling point is the super-realist style that almost convinces you you’re watching a documentary. The highly believable scenes were mostly improvised and the result is a total lack of cliché. It’s particularly good at rendering moments of excruciating awkwardness. The male lead (Anton Yelchin) seems a little weak, but perhaps he’s meant to be. His other girlfriend is played by Jennifer Lawrence, who is as wonderful as ever. And the well-meaning London parents (who like a drink or three) are also completely convincing. It’s a sweet film that stays with you.