a slate of five widely-diverse, international films are to be shown.

Following on the highly popular first series, the latest offering includes films from France, Britain, Japan and Denmark.

Coordinator Cathy Stovell says that all of the films selected will appeal to all moviegoers who are tired of Hollywood's big budget motion pictures. And, although the film series is not directly connected to the annual Bermuda Film Festival, Ms Stovell is sure that many of those who supported the Festival will be anxious to see the films on view. "There really is a terrific choice and I think people will be surprised at just how entertaining these films are.

They provide a very refreshing option from what is usually seen here -- and at much lower rates!'' Ms Stovell says the film series also aims to attract school students, especially those studying foreign languages. "We are liaising with high school teachers to ensure that as many students as possible can attend -- particularly for our French and Spanish-speaking films. We are also hoping that our local film makers will support the films and make the most of seeing some of the most interesting work from fellow contemporary film makers.'' `Shall We Dance', a Japanese dramatic comedy which delves into the world of ballroom dancing, turned out to be a surprise hit, receiving wide coverage in the US and Europe -- and romped home with rave reviews from around the world.

Also acclaimed by the critics was `Manuel, Le Fils Emprunte' (`Manuel, A Son by Choice'), by French Canadian producer Nardo Castillo. Filmed in French with English subtitles, it centres around a young Portuguese boy who befriends an elderly war veteran from the Spanish Civil War. "This dramatic comedy has not been widely shown,'' says Ms Stovell, "but it has won several awards at film festivals around the world and the Bermuda screening offers a rare chance to see a wonderful film'' Another movie which should prove to be especially popular with British audiences is that country's `A Private Function' by writer/director Malcolm Mowbray. Set in a small Yorkshire village in 1947, food is still rationed two years after the end of World War II. The fun begins when the villagers show ingenuity in their determination to stage a banquet in celebration of the wedding of Princess Elizabeth (before she became Queen).

All films are shown by rear projection on a cinema-size screen.

Starting in October and continuing every other Tuesday evening through December, the first film, `Manuel, Le Fils Emprunte', will be shown on October 13, with `A Private Function' on October 27. `Shall We Dance?' will be screened on November 10, with the Danish drama, `Babette's Feast' on November 24. The French mystery, `Olivier Olivier' brings this particular season to an end on December 8.

All films commence at 7 p.m. and entrance is $5 ($2.50 for BNG members).

Reservations may be made by telephoning the gallery at 295-9428.

MOVIE TIME -- Cathy Stovell, coordinator of the latest Film Series at the Bermuda National Gallery.