Dangerous film a Roar-ing success

It has been billed as the most dangerous movie ever made. Sure, no animals were harmed in the making of 1981 family adventure tale Roar, but 70 cast and crew members were. Writer-director Noel Marshall wanted the inherent danger in his tale about an American family visiting the African wilderness to feel authentic, so he decided to simply film the actors as they were, surrounded by an eclectic collection of big cats. The result was shocking. You can see the fear in the actors’ eyes as they witness scraps between the felines or become a casual chew toy.

Cinematographer Jan de Bont, the man who later went on to direct bomb-ona-bus thriller Speed), apparently needed 220 stitches on his scalp, a young Melanie Griffith almost lost an eye and star Tippi Hedren had an even worse time on this project than anything Alfred Hitchcock could throw at her on The Birds.

Now, Aucklanders have a rare chance to see Marshall’s bonkers project on a big screen, projected in all its 35mm glory.

Avondale’s Hollywood Cinema is unspooling the movie from 3.30pm today, as part of a season screening movies the way they used to be. Go early and you’ll be treated to a half-hour selection of rare New Zealand shorts, cartoons and trailers.

For cat lovers of a more nervous disposition, Kedi (YouTube Premium, AppleTV, DVD) may be just the ticket.

Dedicated to Istanbul’s moggies and the people who love and care for them, it showcases an eclectic collection of kedi (Turkish for cat).

Unlike the pampered pusses who luxuriate in Kiwi homes, these are street-hardened characters who get by on their nous, charisma and sheer determination.

There’s Psikopat the territorial tough-cookie, market mascot Deniz, and delicatessen lover Duman (who politely pads the window when requiring service).

Finally, ahead of the arrival of a new canine caper in cinemas on Thursday – A Dog’s Way Home (PG), now is the perfect time to revisit its 2017 spiritual successor.

Like Home, A Dog’s Purpose (PG, various streaming services and DVD/Blu-ray) is based on the books by W Bruce Cameron.

Swedish director Lasse Hallstrom’s romantic drama is kind of a cross between The Littlest Hobo, Quantum Leap and The Age of Adeline.

Put simply, it’s Nicholas Sparks for dog lovers.