Edge of the World, The

Story Line: On Hirta, a desolate island off the coast of Scotland, peat supplies are giving out, and two families are divided as to how to proceed. Evacuation is urged by Robbie (Berry) but opposed by his father Peter (Laurie) and Andrew (MacGinnis), fiancé of Robbie's sister Ruth (Chrystall).

Bottom Line: The first important film directed by Powell (The Red Shoes, Black Narcissus, Peeping Tom), 1937's The Edge of the World doesn't display the technical perfection for which his later movies were noted. However, it's a profoundly moving film--haunting, even--beautifully shot on rugged, picturesque locations. Notwithstanding the inherent difficulties in persuading average consumers to rent old, black-and-white, non-Hollywood movies with unfamiliar casts, you should make a special effort to promote World. Powell's modestly produced (and largely self-financed) little drama has been known to affect even the most indifferent audiences deeply, and despite its bittersweet conclusion, it will almost invariably satisfy viewers willing to give it a chance. Kudos to Milestone for its stunning digital transfer from the original camera negative. --Ed Hulse