'Dead in France' Another NHFF Gem

For New Hampshire Film Festival movie-goers who needed a good laugh, director Kris McManus' "Dead in France" was just the ticket.

The 88-minute film was shown on Saturday morning at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre and tells the story about a socially-challenged hitman Charles who lives in Cannes and wants to retire with a yacht and a woman in tow.

According to the film's web site, "He has no experience with either until he lets his cleaning lady (delectable Essex-girl Lisa) into his life, but he doesn't bank on her vile boyfriend Denny or con-artists Simon and Ray stealing a two million quid nest egg from the boot of his car. Charles hunts them down across the Cote d'Azur whilst pursued by his rival Clancy who is incensed by the fact that Charles might actually be retiring."

The film, which was released in the United Kingdom, won three awards for best film, best actor and best supporting actor from the Los Angeles Cinema Festival of Hollywood. Being able to watch this film in the cozy, intimate setting of the Rep was also a treat.

"Dead in France" is just one of several great films being screened on day three of the 12th annual NHFF. A special screening of Cheech and Chong's comedy classic, "Up In Smoke," is scheduled at 2:35 p.m. at the Music Hall Loft to be followed by a question and answer session with Tommy Chong.

The director/actor and comedian will also be one of four panelists who will conduct the special "A Conversation of Comedy" discussion at the Discover Portsmouth Center at 5:30 p.m.

Another must-see film if you haven't seen it already is "Girls Against Boys," at 8:30 p.m. at the Music Hall. Directed by Austin Chick, this New Hampshire film is a 93-minute thriller that tells the story of a journey taken by two young women of liberation that turns into one of revenge and vigilantism. This film is also showing on Sunday at 2:55 p.m. at the Rep.

And don't forget about the Moet & Chandon After Party on Saturday night at Martingale Wharf.