Adapted from a 1957 novel by Swedish writer Hans Ruesch, Black Gold tells the story of the expansion of oil mining in the Middle East. Although it feels a little dated, the film does provide a certain – albeit highly retro – epic charm and the sweeping desert vistas, scores of camels, tanks and extras feel like they belong to one of those Hollywood super-productions of the 50s or 60s. A decent lead turn by Tahir Rahim, ably supported by Antonio Banderas, and a few spectacular set-pieces lift the movie above the run-of-the-mill – give it a try, you might be pleasantly surprised.