The Last of Sheila (1973)

Rich Clinton Greene (James Coburn) hosts a party on his yacht one year after his wife was killed by a mystery driver. His friends, each with their own reason to curry favor with arrogant Greene, tolerate his game's dark nature. Then things become really dark.

With A list actors working long hours on an overcrowded boat, production became understandably troubled. Raquel Welch’s behavior was called out by James Mason who called her “the most selfish, ill-mannered, inconsiderate actress that I have ever had the displeasure of working with”. Bad weather and a terrorist bomb threat didn’t help matters.

Anthony Perkins and Stephen Sondheim used to host murder mystery parties for their Hollywood friends and it was suggested they write a script. Many of the characters are based on real people, lovingly I presume. I believe Richard Benjamin is playing Perkins.

Despite the troubled production, The Last of Sheila is a clever, compelling drama and excellent mystery. It’s a smart film that will keep you guessing until the end. AMRU 4.5.

"Give me a glass of water and a couple of lesbians."