Simon of the Desert

Short, sharp and astounding, this film provides a teasing bridge between the Old Testament Buñuel of Nazarin and Viridiana, and the new - Belle de Jour and Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie. Simon Stylites, literally perched on a pedestal, is assailed by a cynical dwarf and a series of temptations (including Silvia Piñal and some vintage surrealist images) before being swept, like King Kong, from timelessness to the cacophony of modern New York. Not a very reassuring vision, but worth 45 minutes of any sceptic's time.