STEVE MCQUEEN: THE MAN AND LE MANS

Digital and Disc June 5

This oddly deflating documentary shows how Hollywood hero Steve McQueen was the driving force behind 1970 motor racing drama, Le Mans. The flop was a collision of his passion for fast cars and movies, and was an empty vehicle for the King of Cool’s vanity. Filming began without a script, production went wildly over budget and saw a revolving door of writers and directors. Interviews are given by McQueen’s first wife, their son Chad and film crew. A lesson in why actors shouldn’t have too much power.

Digital Now, Disc June 5

Brit actress Rachel Weisz delivers an impassioned performance in this gripping courtroom drama. She’s full of sharp intelligence, wit and determination as US Jewish university lecturer, Deborah Lipstadt. Timothy Spall is magnificent as British historian David Irving, who sues her for libel. The case hinges on Irving’s denial of the true purpose of the death camp at Auschwitz. With dignity and sincerity, the actor makes Irving’s reprehensible arguments appear dangerously and falsely reasonable and seductive.

Digital Now, Disc June 5

This entertaining horror springs from the mind of M. Night Shyamalan, of The Sixth Sense fame. There’s twists and a big surprise at the end which ties in with an earlier film of his. It’s produced by the makers of the Paranormal Activity franchise and the low-budget specialists don’t care how much new-age waffle Shyamalan squeezes in as long as he includes a lunatic terrorising semi-dressed teens. Scots actor James McAvoy delivers a top performance as a multiple personality maniac with a lot on his mind(s).