Pandora’s Box

What’s That Film? the latest collection to launch on BFI Player, takes its cue from the Mediatheque’s popular Pandora’s Box collection which delves into the strange and unclassifiable corners of the archive. Launched in 2007, Pandora’s Box takes a trip into the world of the odd, the esoteric, the delightful and the downright dangerous. From early appearances by the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Joan Collins, Michael Caine and Jude Law to strange fragments of film that we know next-to-nothing about, we like to think of it as home to the cult films of tomorrow. Where else could you see a juggling bluebottle, nuns at bayonet point or an awkward Sean Connery helping to promote the RNIB all in the same place? So if BFI Player’s quirkier offerings have whetted your appetite why not head to the Mediatheque for even more head-scratching curios?

Ten to Try

An Over-Incubated Baby (1901)

A growth experiment goes horribly wrong in this macabre black comedy.

The Scarlet Woman (1924)

Catholic fantasy starring Evelyn Waugh in an Andy Warhol-style wig.

Dick Henderson Singing ‘Love Her All the More’ (1926)

Hull’s favourite music hall star trills out a resounding ode to his beloved.

The Order of the Bath (1926)

A surreal and slightly unhinged ad for Norwich’s famous export – Colman’s Mustard.

Strip! Strip! Hooray!!!! (1932)

A tale of loose morals in a private club for scantily-clad sunbathers.

Unwanted Guests (1943)

As if times weren’t tough enough during WWII, let’s pay a visit to the nit nurse.

War of the Worlds (1952)

Jeff Wayne, eat your heart out: Clacton County Youth Centre takes on HG Wells’ sci-fi classic.

Jack the Ripper – Cinebox (1963)

Screaming Lord Sutch performs a song of alarmingly questionable taste.

The Peaches (1964)

When a beautiful girl who loves peaches falls in love, the world’s supply starts to wither…

A New Home for Dave Hill from Slade (1973)

ATV Today’s reporter braves screaming teens to join Slade’s guitarist as he moves into a new pad in Solihull.