The Party * * * *

Welcome!

       This film is advertised as being seventy minutes long, which is very short for a feature film.  Take away the titles and credits and you've probably only got about sixty minutes of drama. But what an hour!
       Shot in black and white, this tight, funny, clever drama from English Director Sally Potter is not to be missed. It's set in real time too. Basically, Janet has just been promoted to a Government Ministerial position and a few friends are coming round for an afternoon tea party to celebrate.  But an explosive secret (or two) is about to come out - and does!
      The experienced cast including Kristen Scott-Thomas, Patrica Clarkson, Timothy Spall,  relish in their roles and working together.
     It has cracks at alternative medicine, feminism, left wing politics, idealism, chardonnay sipping socialists. There is not much that doesn't cop a spray. I can't tell you too much about the plot without spoiling it for you, but I'd be greatly surprised if you don't enjoy this very funny film.