Alfie (1966)

Plot:  Michael Caine stars as the a Cockney Cad who loves them and leaves them.

Pros: Michael Cain, supporting actors, inventive direction, well written script, Shelly Winters well cast with small role 

Cons: Somewhat dated, Not for kids 

A pleasant surprise. Caine deserved an Oscar for his likable, amoral, cockney ladies man. He dominates the film from start to finish -charming the women on screen - and the audience - with his witty confessions. Surprisingly, he got the role only after Laurence Harvey (!) and Richard Harris turned it down. The supporting actors are also good - but Caine is always center front. Direction is excellent. The only flaw?  The story is dated, given legalized abortion, AIDS, and the changed role of women. Note: for a comedy there’s a surprising amount of pathos beneath the laughter.

Summary: Enjoyable from start to finish, Caine’s best performance.. Rating ***1/2