This review does not dismiss the opinions of others in relation to this movie. Let me just say that, for me, a worthwhile film is one that stays with you. I saw "Christina" years ago as a child and I always remembered it; the images, the atmosphere and the overall "look" of the movie. It is far from perfect, but it reflects a degree of cleverness that is missing from many another film. I speak to the actual plot machinations, which are adequately twisting enough to keep you guessing as to what is really happening.
Then there is the relationship between Simon Bryce, the out of work engineer, and Christina, which has more to do with his fantasy fulfillment than with reality, but which is touching nevertheless. So when we get to the tragic denouement, there is a genuine sense of loss.
Finally, as stated above, there is the overall look and atmosphere of the movie. Maybe it's a little dated, maybe there are cardboard, potboiler formulaic elements; but for me it works because they do create atmosphere. Barbara Parkins is noteworthy -- both in terms of her glamor and her handling of the role. And Peter Haskell is solid as Bryce, who falls for the femme fatale.
I've always found it interesting that a movie can be imperfect in many, many ways and still have "something". Maybe because movies operate on numerous levels and can create their own kind of magic -- something to do with wish fulfillment, perhaps.
Then there is the relationship between Simon Bryce, the out of work engineer, and Christina, which has more to do with his fantasy fulfillment than with reality, but which is touching nevertheless. So when we get to the tragic denouement, there is a genuine sense of loss.
Finally, as stated above, there is the overall look and atmosphere of the movie. Maybe it's a little dated, maybe there are cardboard, potboiler formulaic elements; but for me it works because they do create atmosphere. Barbara Parkins is noteworthy -- both in terms of her glamor and her handling of the role. And Peter Haskell is solid as Bryce, who falls for the femme fatale.
I've always found it interesting that a movie can be imperfect in many, many ways and still have "something". Maybe because movies operate on numerous levels and can create their own kind of magic -- something to do with wish fulfillment, perhaps.