Films like Kill List and Sightseers have made Ben Wheatley one of British cinema’s most singular voices. As his adaptation of Jg Ballard’s High-Rise is released, the director talks about his influences – and why he reads all his reviews
Ben Wheatley isn’t crazy about film critics. “It’s a job that I wouldn’t want or seek out,” he recently told the online film magazine Flickreel. “As a creative person, I think you should be making stuff… and if you aren’t, why should you have a voice to complain about things until you’ve walked a mile in someone’s shoes?”
Wheatley’s typically mischievous comments sparked a heated reaction online (“I should have kept my mouth shut,” he later told me, ruefully), but they are nothing new. Back in 2012, when interviewing Wheatley for The Culture Show about his murderous caravan comedy, Sightseers (if you haven’t seen it,...
Ben Wheatley isn’t crazy about film critics. “It’s a job that I wouldn’t want or seek out,” he recently told the online film magazine Flickreel. “As a creative person, I think you should be making stuff… and if you aren’t, why should you have a voice to complain about things until you’ve walked a mile in someone’s shoes?”
Wheatley’s typically mischievous comments sparked a heated reaction online (“I should have kept my mouth shut,” he later told me, ruefully), but they are nothing new. Back in 2012, when interviewing Wheatley for The Culture Show about his murderous caravan comedy, Sightseers (if you haven’t seen it,...
- 3/6/2016
- by Mark Kermode
- The Guardian - Film News
Mark Kermode on modern film criticism, critics of his own work, Michael Bay, Jason Statham and male oil wrestling.
The last time we spoke to Mark Kermode, he'd just launched his book about the state of movie criticism, Hatchet Job. Since then, he's embarked on a nationwide tour with the book, and undertaken dozens of Q&As with audiences about it.
And that, as Hatchet Job continues to thrive in paperback, is where we started...
I spoke to you just as you launched Hatchet Job, and in your words, since then you've "toured the arse off it". You've done Q&As with the people who've read your book, and who you wrote it for.
So what have you learned about what audiences feel regarding film critics, and where they sit in the world?
I think the most important thing was when I started writing it, I was, as you know,...
The last time we spoke to Mark Kermode, he'd just launched his book about the state of movie criticism, Hatchet Job. Since then, he's embarked on a nationwide tour with the book, and undertaken dozens of Q&As with audiences about it.
And that, as Hatchet Job continues to thrive in paperback, is where we started...
I spoke to you just as you launched Hatchet Job, and in your words, since then you've "toured the arse off it". You've done Q&As with the people who've read your book, and who you wrote it for.
So what have you learned about what audiences feel regarding film critics, and where they sit in the world?
I think the most important thing was when I started writing it, I was, as you know,...
- 1/28/2015
- by simonbrew
- Den of Geek
BBC
It’s easy to see why a 2010 poll named Mark Kermode as the nation’s most trusted film reviewer. As chief film critic for The Observer, co-presenter of The Culture Show and contributor for the BBC’s Newsnight Review, Kermode has secured himself a privileged place at the heart of British media.
But it is his co-presenting role on Radio 5 Live’s weekly film show that has garnered the outspoken critic his biggest audience. Described by The New Statesman as ‘the best movie programme available in any medium’ and known to fans simply as ‘wittertainment’ (a joyous portmanteau of wittering and entertainment), Kermode and Mayo’s Film Review offers listeners unguarded, divisive and – more often than not – humorous reviews of the latest cinematic releases.
As well as constant catty exchanges with fellow host Simon Mayo – a relationship often compared to that of an old married couple – the programme has...
It’s easy to see why a 2010 poll named Mark Kermode as the nation’s most trusted film reviewer. As chief film critic for The Observer, co-presenter of The Culture Show and contributor for the BBC’s Newsnight Review, Kermode has secured himself a privileged place at the heart of British media.
But it is his co-presenting role on Radio 5 Live’s weekly film show that has garnered the outspoken critic his biggest audience. Described by The New Statesman as ‘the best movie programme available in any medium’ and known to fans simply as ‘wittertainment’ (a joyous portmanteau of wittering and entertainment), Kermode and Mayo’s Film Review offers listeners unguarded, divisive and – more often than not – humorous reviews of the latest cinematic releases.
As well as constant catty exchanges with fellow host Simon Mayo – a relationship often compared to that of an old married couple – the programme has...
- 3/25/2014
- by Terry Hearn
- Obsessed with Film
Christian Cawley is a writer at Kasterborous Doctor Who News and Reviews - All the latest Doctor Who news and reviews with our weekly podKast, features and interviews, and a long-running forum.
Tonight’s Doctor Who 50th anniversary treat – assuming you’re not at the big event in London – comes in the shape of a Culture Show special by Matthew Sweet. Me, You and Doctor Who is an in-depth look at how what was originally planned as a children’s show (although never produced by a children’s department)
The post Don’t Miss The Culture Show – Me, You and Doctor Who appeared first on Kasterborous Doctor Who News and Reviews.
Tonight’s Doctor Who 50th anniversary treat – assuming you’re not at the big event in London – comes in the shape of a Culture Show special by Matthew Sweet. Me, You and Doctor Who is an in-depth look at how what was originally planned as a children’s show (although never produced by a children’s department)
The post Don’t Miss The Culture Show – Me, You and Doctor Who appeared first on Kasterborous Doctor Who News and Reviews.
- 11/22/2013
- by Christian Cawley
- Kasterborous.com
It’s going to be Time Lord overload for the next couple of months. In addition to the 50th-anniversary special “The Day of the Doctor” and the making-of docudrama “An Adventure in Space and Time,” the Doctor is going to be all over the BBC. From the BBC’s Doctor Who site:
BBC Two will broadcast a number of new commissions, focusing on telling the story behind the show. For one night only, Professor Brian Cox will take an audience of celebrity guests and members of the public on a journey into the wonderful universe of the Doctor, from the lecture hall of the Royal Institution of Great Britain (1x60mins). Drawing on the latest theories as well as 200 years of scientific discoveries and the genius of Einstein, Brian tries to answer the classic questions raised by the Doctor – can you really travel in time? Does extra-terrestrial life exist in our galaxy?...
BBC Two will broadcast a number of new commissions, focusing on telling the story behind the show. For one night only, Professor Brian Cox will take an audience of celebrity guests and members of the public on a journey into the wonderful universe of the Doctor, from the lecture hall of the Royal Institution of Great Britain (1x60mins). Drawing on the latest theories as well as 200 years of scientific discoveries and the genius of Einstein, Brian tries to answer the classic questions raised by the Doctor – can you really travel in time? Does extra-terrestrial life exist in our galaxy?...
- 9/12/2013
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Doctor Who fans... we're a funny old bunch, aren't we?
At best, we're caught in a state of permanent anxiety about the fate of our favourite sci-fi drama, and at worst, we're downright pessimistic about it.
So ever since head honcho Steven Moffat promised, way back in December 2012, that Doctor Who would "take over television" in its 50th anniversary year, fans have wanted to know what we're getting, when we're getting it and whether it'll match our lofty expectations.
The BBC officially unveiled its slate of celebratory programming at 00.01am this morning (unofficially revealing it a little earlier than that!) and, it has to be said, it's a pretty damn impressive line-up.
All four major BBC channels, plus Cbbc, BBC Radio 2, Radio 4 Extra and iPlayer, will be hosting shows dedicated to the big birthday bash - though some hard-to-please Whovians are still finding reason to complain...
Well, the Week in Geek says phooey to you!
At best, we're caught in a state of permanent anxiety about the fate of our favourite sci-fi drama, and at worst, we're downright pessimistic about it.
So ever since head honcho Steven Moffat promised, way back in December 2012, that Doctor Who would "take over television" in its 50th anniversary year, fans have wanted to know what we're getting, when we're getting it and whether it'll match our lofty expectations.
The BBC officially unveiled its slate of celebratory programming at 00.01am this morning (unofficially revealing it a little earlier than that!) and, it has to be said, it's a pretty damn impressive line-up.
All four major BBC channels, plus Cbbc, BBC Radio 2, Radio 4 Extra and iPlayer, will be hosting shows dedicated to the big birthday bash - though some hard-to-please Whovians are still finding reason to complain...
Well, the Week in Geek says phooey to you!
- 9/11/2013
- Digital Spy
In just over two months, the BBC will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of Doctor Who with a one-off special, Doctor Who: The Day of the Doctor, and the anticipation has naturally been buzzing for months around the special event.
The 75-minute episode will air on BBC One, BBC America, and around the world on November 23rd, and commemorating fifty years of what has grown to become a cultural landmark, as Steven Moffat describes it in the broadcaster’s full press release below.
As the programme draws ever clear, a new poster has been revealed for The Day of the Doctor, along with a slew of programming around the episode to celebrate the milestone.
The episode will be the penultimate to star the current Doctor, Matt Smith, who will be exiting the programme with the Christmas episode. Peter Capaldi was announced last month as his replacement, coming on board...
The 75-minute episode will air on BBC One, BBC America, and around the world on November 23rd, and commemorating fifty years of what has grown to become a cultural landmark, as Steven Moffat describes it in the broadcaster’s full press release below.
As the programme draws ever clear, a new poster has been revealed for The Day of the Doctor, along with a slew of programming around the episode to celebrate the milestone.
The episode will be the penultimate to star the current Doctor, Matt Smith, who will be exiting the programme with the Christmas episode. Peter Capaldi was announced last month as his replacement, coming on board...
- 9/11/2013
- by Kenji Lloyd
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
News Louisa Mellor 11 Sep 2013 - 07:57
The BBC has released even more details of its Doctor Who 50th celebrations, across its radio and television stations...
In the run-up to BBC One's simultaneous broadcast of Doctor Who anniversary special episode, The Day of the Doctor, comes, well, all this. Licence-fee payers, fill your timelord boots:
BBC Two
"Professor Brian Cox will take an audience of celebrity guests and members of the public on a journey into the wonderful universe of the Doctor, from the lecture hall of the Royal Institution of Great Britain (1x60mins). Drawing on the latest theories as well as 200 years of scientific discoveries and the genius of Einstein, Brian tries to answer the classic questions raised by the Doctor – can you really travel in time? Does extra-terrestrial life exist in our galaxy? And how do you build something as fantastical as the Tardis?
In an hour-long special,...
The BBC has released even more details of its Doctor Who 50th celebrations, across its radio and television stations...
In the run-up to BBC One's simultaneous broadcast of Doctor Who anniversary special episode, The Day of the Doctor, comes, well, all this. Licence-fee payers, fill your timelord boots:
BBC Two
"Professor Brian Cox will take an audience of celebrity guests and members of the public on a journey into the wonderful universe of the Doctor, from the lecture hall of the Royal Institution of Great Britain (1x60mins). Drawing on the latest theories as well as 200 years of scientific discoveries and the genius of Einstein, Brian tries to answer the classic questions raised by the Doctor – can you really travel in time? Does extra-terrestrial life exist in our galaxy? And how do you build something as fantastical as the Tardis?
In an hour-long special,...
- 9/11/2013
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
The BBC has unveiled its slate of programming to celebrate Doctor Who's 50th anniversary.
The sci-fi drama's 50th special - starring Matt Smith and David Tennant - will be titled 'The Day of the Doctor' and will be 75 minutes in length.
Smith said: "The Day of the Doctor is nearly here! Hope you all enjoy. There's lots more coming your way, as the countdown to the 50th begins now."
All of the BBC's channels will dedicate programmes to Doctor Who in the run-up to the golden anniversary on November 23.
BBC Two will air a special lecture by Professor Brian Cox on the science of Doctor Who, while arts programme The Culture Show will present 'Me, You and Doctor Who' - an hour-long special with life-long Who fan Matthew Sweet exploring the cultural significance of the long-running TV drama.
The channel will also air the previously-announced drama biopic An...
The sci-fi drama's 50th special - starring Matt Smith and David Tennant - will be titled 'The Day of the Doctor' and will be 75 minutes in length.
Smith said: "The Day of the Doctor is nearly here! Hope you all enjoy. There's lots more coming your way, as the countdown to the 50th begins now."
All of the BBC's channels will dedicate programmes to Doctor Who in the run-up to the golden anniversary on November 23.
BBC Two will air a special lecture by Professor Brian Cox on the science of Doctor Who, while arts programme The Culture Show will present 'Me, You and Doctor Who' - an hour-long special with life-long Who fan Matthew Sweet exploring the cultural significance of the long-running TV drama.
The channel will also air the previously-announced drama biopic An...
- 9/10/2013
- Digital Spy
The title and runtime for the upcoming "Doctor Who" 50th anniversary special has been revealed.
The 75-minute special will be entitled "The Day of the Doctor" and, as previously reported, will go to air on November 23rd. No trailer has yet aired for the one-off.
Speaking of the special, actor John Hurt spoke with The Guardian about his role in the project following the big reveal in May's seventh season finale:
"I had no idea that Doctor Who had got so huge. I just thought, 'Brilliant, I'll be a Doctor!' I was suddenly - what do they call it? You start 'trending'. This is all new to me! Of course you have to remember that the Doctors are all one person, so I'm not outside of that. I can't talk about it, but I will say I was really impressed when I did it.
Both the previous doctors -...
The 75-minute special will be entitled "The Day of the Doctor" and, as previously reported, will go to air on November 23rd. No trailer has yet aired for the one-off.
Speaking of the special, actor John Hurt spoke with The Guardian about his role in the project following the big reveal in May's seventh season finale:
"I had no idea that Doctor Who had got so huge. I just thought, 'Brilliant, I'll be a Doctor!' I was suddenly - what do they call it? You start 'trending'. This is all new to me! Of course you have to remember that the Doctors are all one person, so I'm not outside of that. I can't talk about it, but I will say I was really impressed when I did it.
Both the previous doctors -...
- 9/10/2013
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
The BBC has officially announced the multitude of programmes that have been lined up to celebrate Doctor Who’s 50th Anniversary. Amongst the announcement of various tributes has been the latest major reveal about the Anniversary Special itself: The episode is titled “The Day Of The Doctor” and will run for seventy-five minutes.
As well as “The Day Of The Doctor”, the BBC will also broadcast the programme’s first story “An Unearthly Child” on BBC4 in a previously unbroadcast and restored format, Mark Gatiss’s docudrama “An Adventure In Space And Time” starring David Bradley as William Hartnell, a BBC2 lecture by Professor Brian Cox (who guest starred as himself in last year’s The Power Of Three) about the science of Doctor Who, several broadcasts on BBC3 that have yet to be confirmed, and “Me, You, And Doctor Who”, a special edition of BBC2 arts programme The Culture Show...
As well as “The Day Of The Doctor”, the BBC will also broadcast the programme’s first story “An Unearthly Child” on BBC4 in a previously unbroadcast and restored format, Mark Gatiss’s docudrama “An Adventure In Space And Time” starring David Bradley as William Hartnell, a BBC2 lecture by Professor Brian Cox (who guest starred as himself in last year’s The Power Of Three) about the science of Doctor Who, several broadcasts on BBC3 that have yet to be confirmed, and “Me, You, And Doctor Who”, a special edition of BBC2 arts programme The Culture Show...
- 9/10/2013
- by James T. Cornish
- Obsessed with Film
News Simon Brew 10 Sep 2013 - 13:36
The BBC has given a flavour of the celebrations in store for Doctor Who's 50th birthday this November...
The wraps are finally coming off the celebrations that the BBC has planned for the 50th anniversary of Doctor Who this November. We know already that a 75 minute special episode, The Day Of The Doctor, will star Matt Smith and David Tennant. Furthermore, Mark Gatiss' eagerly-awaited docudrama, An Adventure In Space And Time, is already earmarked for the anniversary weekend.
But more has now come to light.
A BBC Two lecture from Professor Brian Cox will be screened, where he'll look at the science behind the show. Meanwhile, BBC Four is confirmed to be doing a full re-run of Doctor Who's maiden story. Furthermore, the William Hartnell adventure will be broadcast in a restored format for the first time.
On BBC Two again,...
The BBC has given a flavour of the celebrations in store for Doctor Who's 50th birthday this November...
The wraps are finally coming off the celebrations that the BBC has planned for the 50th anniversary of Doctor Who this November. We know already that a 75 minute special episode, The Day Of The Doctor, will star Matt Smith and David Tennant. Furthermore, Mark Gatiss' eagerly-awaited docudrama, An Adventure In Space And Time, is already earmarked for the anniversary weekend.
But more has now come to light.
A BBC Two lecture from Professor Brian Cox will be screened, where he'll look at the science behind the show. Meanwhile, BBC Four is confirmed to be doing a full re-run of Doctor Who's maiden story. Furthermore, the William Hartnell adventure will be broadcast in a restored format for the first time.
On BBC Two again,...
- 9/10/2013
- by simonbrew
- Den of Geek
Writer and broadcaster Mark Kermode will become The Observer's new resident film critic next month. Kermode, 50, will replace critic Philip French, who is retiring at the beginning of September shortly after his 80th birthday, having written for London daily The Guardian's sister weekly Sunday newspaper for 50 years. Kermode said that he was inspired by French: "No-one can match his breadth of knowledge or elegance of expression, but I hope I can bring to the role the passion for cinema which Observer readers expect." Kermode started writing reviews for The Observer in 2002. Lately he has delivered a weekly DVD review column. He is currently a contributing editor to Sight & Sound. He also presents the "Kermode and Mayo’s Film Review" on BBC Radio 5Live, and "The Film Review" on the BBC News Channel. He is also a presenter for BBC2’s "The Culture Show" and writes and presents the bi-weekly BBC video-blog "Kermode Uncut.
- 8/17/2013
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Review Cameron K McEwan 1 Mar 2013 - 07:50
Cameron sifts through the rumour and fact to find out what we actually know about Doctor Who's forthcoming 50th Anniversary celebrations...
Doctor Who is well known for its rumours. Hardly a day goes by without someone claiming either Paul McGann is back or The Rani is making a return, and with the 50th Anniversary Special looming, the rumour mill has never been so busy.
But what is fact? What do we actually know about the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary Special. Or, indeed, specials?
What we do know is there will be at least one special, to be screened in 3D on the small screen and in selected cinemas. Now, we should point out to those who automatically hit the "rant" button whenever 3D is mentioned that you will also be able to watch it in 2D. So desist from your hate now,...
Cameron sifts through the rumour and fact to find out what we actually know about Doctor Who's forthcoming 50th Anniversary celebrations...
Doctor Who is well known for its rumours. Hardly a day goes by without someone claiming either Paul McGann is back or The Rani is making a return, and with the 50th Anniversary Special looming, the rumour mill has never been so busy.
But what is fact? What do we actually know about the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary Special. Or, indeed, specials?
What we do know is there will be at least one special, to be screened in 3D on the small screen and in selected cinemas. Now, we should point out to those who automatically hit the "rant" button whenever 3D is mentioned that you will also be able to watch it in 2D. So desist from your hate now,...
- 3/1/2013
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
Ricky Gervais's Derek was back above 1 million viewers on Wednesday night (February 27), and a new episode of The Only Way Is Essex pulled in over 800k, according to the latest audience data.
The Channel 4 comedy starring Gervais and Karl Pilkington rallied to 1.12m (6%) at 10pm on Wednesday and 123k (1.3%) on +1. This followed the show's slump to 930k the previous week due to competition with the Brits.
Documentary The Making of Derek was seen by 650k (4.5%) on Channel 4 from 10.30pm.
Earlier on Channel 4, Obsessive Compulsive Hoarders entertained 2.05m (9.5%) from 8pm and 295k (1.3%) on +1. One Born Every Minute delighted 2m (8.8%) from 9pm and 383k (2.3%) on timeshift.
On ITV2, the second episode of series eight of reality TV series The Only Way Is Essex was seen by 769k (4.4%) from 10pm, with an additional 108k (1.2%) tuning in on +1.
Another strong performer on the multichannels was People Like Us, with the 'real...
The Channel 4 comedy starring Gervais and Karl Pilkington rallied to 1.12m (6%) at 10pm on Wednesday and 123k (1.3%) on +1. This followed the show's slump to 930k the previous week due to competition with the Brits.
Documentary The Making of Derek was seen by 650k (4.5%) on Channel 4 from 10.30pm.
Earlier on Channel 4, Obsessive Compulsive Hoarders entertained 2.05m (9.5%) from 8pm and 295k (1.3%) on +1. One Born Every Minute delighted 2m (8.8%) from 9pm and 383k (2.3%) on timeshift.
On ITV2, the second episode of series eight of reality TV series The Only Way Is Essex was seen by 769k (4.4%) from 10pm, with an additional 108k (1.2%) tuning in on +1.
Another strong performer on the multichannels was People Like Us, with the 'real...
- 2/28/2013
- Digital Spy
Among the many, many cinematographers lensing pictures in the movie industry, there are few whose names immediately evoke a singular, stylistic sensibility. One of those folks is Christohper Doyle. Rising to fame thanks to his collaborations with Wong Kar-Wai, the cinemtographer has mostly worked in foreign cinema with unique entries in American film thanks to M. Night Shyamalan's "Lady In The Water," and Gus Van Sant's "Psycho" remake and his lo-fi "Paranoid Park." Doyle is always a good raconteur and this short doc is worth a spin. Created for BBC Two's "The Culture Show," and seemingly put together not long after the release of "2046" (and definitely before Doyle fell out with Kar-Wai), the segment visits the cinematographer in his Hong Kong home and he takes them around to the locations used for "In The Mood For Love" and "Chungking Express." He explains how he achieved certain shots, and what.
- 12/10/2012
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
For the past four months, online platform The Space has hosted the best events in Britain. As it is granted a longer life, Maggie Brown asks: is this the future of arts broadcasting?
When The Space launched, somewhat gingerly, in May this year, it was intended as a six-month pilot. Over the summer, Arts Council England's free digital platform, run with the BBC, has carried film and other content tied to events around the UK – providing a record of the Cultural Olympiad for people unable to attend. The Lottery provided £3.7m. In June, the then culture secretary Jeremy Hunt praised the site, urging arts organisations to follow its lead, and floating the idea of "a permanent digital channel with live broadcasts every night". Now Hunt's wish has been granted: this week, the arts council announces that The Space, due to close at the end of the month, has been granted an extension.
When The Space launched, somewhat gingerly, in May this year, it was intended as a six-month pilot. Over the summer, Arts Council England's free digital platform, run with the BBC, has carried film and other content tied to events around the UK – providing a record of the Cultural Olympiad for people unable to attend. The Lottery provided £3.7m. In June, the then culture secretary Jeremy Hunt praised the site, urging arts organisations to follow its lead, and floating the idea of "a permanent digital channel with live broadcasts every night". Now Hunt's wish has been granted: this week, the arts council announces that The Space, due to close at the end of the month, has been granted an extension.
- 10/9/2012
- by Maggie Brown
- The Guardian - Film News
The Culture Show | Rostropovich – The Genius Of The Cello | Autumnwatch 2011 | Criminal Minds | A League Of Their Own | Chris Addison: My Funniest Year
The Culture Show
7pm, BBC2
Another week, another eclectic collection of reports from the arts show, which this week visits Glasgow. Top of the bill is host Andrew Graham-Dixon interviewing Grayson Perry, who's lately curated an installation of new works mixed up with objects drawn from the British Museum collection. Mark Kermode discusses We Need To Talk About Kevin with its director Lynne Ramsay, Simon Armitage celebrates National Poetry Day, and critic Michael Collins considers representations of working-class characters in the theatre. Plus, choreographer Akram Khan and the work of artist Gerhard Richter. Jonathan Wright
Rostropovich – The Genius Of The Cello
7.30pm, BBC4
The cello is the closest orchestral instrument to the human voice in its range of expression. It has achieved a pre-eminence in the classical repertoire,...
The Culture Show
7pm, BBC2
Another week, another eclectic collection of reports from the arts show, which this week visits Glasgow. Top of the bill is host Andrew Graham-Dixon interviewing Grayson Perry, who's lately curated an installation of new works mixed up with objects drawn from the British Museum collection. Mark Kermode discusses We Need To Talk About Kevin with its director Lynne Ramsay, Simon Armitage celebrates National Poetry Day, and critic Michael Collins considers representations of working-class characters in the theatre. Plus, choreographer Akram Khan and the work of artist Gerhard Richter. Jonathan Wright
Rostropovich – The Genius Of The Cello
7.30pm, BBC4
The cello is the closest orchestral instrument to the human voice in its range of expression. It has achieved a pre-eminence in the classical repertoire,...
- 10/7/2011
- by Jonathan Wright, David Stubbs, John Robinson, Martin Skegg
- The Guardian - Film News
What’s your take on the state of modern movies? Mark Kermode has put his thoughts down in his latest book, and he’s been chatting to us about it...
Mark Kermode isn’t a man to shy away from opinions, and his new book, The Good, The Bad And The Multiplex, is chock-full of them. It’s an overview of his thoughts on the state of modern cinema, and where it’s going right and wrong. And as he embarked on his promotional tour for the book, he spared us some time for a chat about it...
Your book talks about what’s wrong with modern movies, and I wonder if DVD is one that you missed.
Appreciating that DVD has been a positive thing in many ways, I do wonder if it’s exposed studios to too much money that they didn’t have in the VHS days.
Mark Kermode isn’t a man to shy away from opinions, and his new book, The Good, The Bad And The Multiplex, is chock-full of them. It’s an overview of his thoughts on the state of modern cinema, and where it’s going right and wrong. And as he embarked on his promotional tour for the book, he spared us some time for a chat about it...
Your book talks about what’s wrong with modern movies, and I wonder if DVD is one that you missed.
Appreciating that DVD has been a positive thing in many ways, I do wonder if it’s exposed studios to too much money that they didn’t have in the VHS days.
- 9/26/2011
- Den of Geek
The Culture Show | Andrew Marr's Megacities | Bums, Boobs And Botox | In Confidence | In Confidence | Ideal
The Culture Show
7pm, BBC2
Unusually, the biggest name on tonight's show is that of one of the reporters: David Attenborough, who presents a digression on the subject of John Craxton, as a new exhibition of the late artist's work opens at Tate Britain. Elsewhere, in a typically bountiful lineup, Mark Kermode speaks to Philip Seymour Hoffman about his directorial debut, Jack Goes Boating, Jacques Peretti meets writer Iain Sinclair, and Michael Smith attempts a Friday-night art crawl in south London. Andrew Mueller
Andrew Marr's Megacities
8pm, BBC1
Andrew Marr takes us on a tour of the "megacity", the habitat of the future. There are already 21 cities with populations of more than 10 million and plenty more on the way. For the first time in human history, there are now more people across the...
The Culture Show
7pm, BBC2
Unusually, the biggest name on tonight's show is that of one of the reporters: David Attenborough, who presents a digression on the subject of John Craxton, as a new exhibition of the late artist's work opens at Tate Britain. Elsewhere, in a typically bountiful lineup, Mark Kermode speaks to Philip Seymour Hoffman about his directorial debut, Jack Goes Boating, Jacques Peretti meets writer Iain Sinclair, and Michael Smith attempts a Friday-night art crawl in south London. Andrew Mueller
Andrew Marr's Megacities
8pm, BBC1
Andrew Marr takes us on a tour of the "megacity", the habitat of the future. There are already 21 cities with populations of more than 10 million and plenty more on the way. For the first time in human history, there are now more people across the...
- 6/2/2011
- by Andrew Mueller, Martin Skegg, Nosheen Iqbal, Phelim O'Neill, Julia Raeside
- The Guardian - Film News
On April 16th 2011, science fiction author Stephen Hunt sent out a press release to genre websites, including Fgt, announcing a letter of protest signed by 85 authors of sci-fi and fantasy literature sent to the BBC.
This letter, penned by Hunt, complained that the BBC 2 had not covered science fiction, fantasy, and horror fiction sufficiently in their World Book Night programming on March 5th, 2011. The programs that particularly bothered Hunt were called “The Books We Really Read”, an episode of The Culture Show, hosted by comedian Sue Perkins and “New Novelists: 12 of the Best.”
Hunt quoted himself in his press release as outlining his contempt for the BBC shows:
Quote:
Fantasy author Stephen Hunt, who organised the protest, commented, “The sneering tone that was levelled towards commercial fiction during The Books We Really Read was deeply counterproductive to the night’s aims of actually encouraging people to read novels. The weight...
This letter, penned by Hunt, complained that the BBC 2 had not covered science fiction, fantasy, and horror fiction sufficiently in their World Book Night programming on March 5th, 2011. The programs that particularly bothered Hunt were called “The Books We Really Read”, an episode of The Culture Show, hosted by comedian Sue Perkins and “New Novelists: 12 of the Best.”
Hunt quoted himself in his press release as outlining his contempt for the BBC shows:
Quote:
Fantasy author Stephen Hunt, who organised the protest, commented, “The sneering tone that was levelled towards commercial fiction during The Books We Really Read was deeply counterproductive to the night’s aims of actually encouraging people to read novels. The weight...
- 4/30/2011
- by Superheidi
- Planet Fury
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Ask any American what they know about British pop culture and chances are they will tell that they love The Office and Extras with that guy who does the embarrassing comedy stuff. Beyond that they probably know of nothing since Monty Python. British television, especially comedy, extends so much further than some fat bloke from Reading that we feel it is our duty to introduce you to some of the finest imports the 51st state has to offer. So if you need a last item here or there for a lover of comedy, all are top quality stocking stuffers, most are available easily, and none of them have anything to do with Ricky Gervais.
The League of Gentlemen: The Collection
DVD - $55.99
{amazon}B0007Y0982{/amazon}
A horror themed sitcom that is as funny as it is strange. Set in...
Ask any American what they know about British pop culture and chances are they will tell that they love The Office and Extras with that guy who does the embarrassing comedy stuff. Beyond that they probably know of nothing since Monty Python. British television, especially comedy, extends so much further than some fat bloke from Reading that we feel it is our duty to introduce you to some of the finest imports the 51st state has to offer. So if you need a last item here or there for a lover of comedy, all are top quality stocking stuffers, most are available easily, and none of them have anything to do with Ricky Gervais.
The League of Gentlemen: The Collection
DVD - $55.99
{amazon}B0007Y0982{/amazon}
A horror themed sitcom that is as funny as it is strange. Set in...
- 12/17/2010
- by JPP Staff
- JustPressPlay.net
Actor, writer, journalist, comedian, television presenter and film director Stephen Fry began making a name for himself back in in various university drama clubs and performances where he became friends with fellow students Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thompson, and Hugh Laurie, all of whom would be his future professional collaborators. His career kicked off immediately thereafter, beginning with the television comedy Al Fresco. His hit Broadway revival Me and My Girl made him a millionaire and won him a Tony Award (1987). The 80s also saw Fry do a large amount of work for television, including the comedy shows A Bit of Fry & Laurie and Blackadder.
During the late 1980s, Fry began a film career as well, appearing in supporting roles in such films as A Fish Called Wanda (1988) and A Handful of Dust (1988). His first major role was that of the eponymous Peter in Peter’s Friends (1992) and later played...
During the late 1980s, Fry began a film career as well, appearing in supporting roles in such films as A Fish Called Wanda (1988) and A Handful of Dust (1988). His first major role was that of the eponymous Peter in Peter’s Friends (1992) and later played...
- 12/2/2010
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
Sherlock got rave reviews this week, and looks set to win awards. So why is it going out in the dog days of summer?
The overwhelmingly positive response to Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss's drama Sherlock, which started on BBC1 at the weekend, suggests that it will be a strong contender when it comes to this year's TV prizes. If the scripts, direction and Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of a modern Sherlock Holmes continue at the level set by the opener, my own view is that this show may go on to rank as a classic.
Yet many admiring critics have struck the same note of incredulity: why was a show of this quality being broadcast in the third week of July, when British television, run by deputy executives while the real ones holiday in Tuscany or Cape Cod, traditionally resorts to repeats and rejects?
It may be that...
The overwhelmingly positive response to Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss's drama Sherlock, which started on BBC1 at the weekend, suggests that it will be a strong contender when it comes to this year's TV prizes. If the scripts, direction and Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of a modern Sherlock Holmes continue at the level set by the opener, my own view is that this show may go on to rank as a classic.
Yet many admiring critics have struck the same note of incredulity: why was a show of this quality being broadcast in the third week of July, when British television, run by deputy executives while the real ones holiday in Tuscany or Cape Cod, traditionally resorts to repeats and rejects?
It may be that...
- 7/29/2010
- by Mark Lawson
- The Guardian - Film News
The Culture Show | Springwatch High Seas With Gordon Buchanan | Outnumbered | Behind The Scenes At The Museum | Alaska State Troopers | Warehouse 13
The Culture Show
7pm, BBC2
His hair will flop in the spring heat, but somehow you doubt whether that will stop Mark Kermode enjoying himself as he heads for the 63rd Cannes film festival. Elsewhere, as the art series returns, Miranda Sawyer visits the Brighton festival to meet playwright Simon Stephens, who has written a musical, Marine Parade, with American Music Club mainman Mark Eitzel. There's also an interview with the festival's artistic director, Brian Eno. Plus Sue Perkins on an unusual production of Benjamin Britten's opera, Noye's Fludde; David Mitchell reads from his new novel, The Thousand Autumns Of Jacob de Zoet; and a performance from Seun Kuti, leading his father Fela's Afrobeat band, Egypt 80.
Springwatch High Seas With Gordon Buchanan
8pm, BBC2
Brand Springwatch discovers life...
The Culture Show
7pm, BBC2
His hair will flop in the spring heat, but somehow you doubt whether that will stop Mark Kermode enjoying himself as he heads for the 63rd Cannes film festival. Elsewhere, as the art series returns, Miranda Sawyer visits the Brighton festival to meet playwright Simon Stephens, who has written a musical, Marine Parade, with American Music Club mainman Mark Eitzel. There's also an interview with the festival's artistic director, Brian Eno. Plus Sue Perkins on an unusual production of Benjamin Britten's opera, Noye's Fludde; David Mitchell reads from his new novel, The Thousand Autumns Of Jacob de Zoet; and a performance from Seun Kuti, leading his father Fela's Afrobeat band, Egypt 80.
Springwatch High Seas With Gordon Buchanan
8pm, BBC2
Brand Springwatch discovers life...
- 5/20/2010
- by Jonathan Wright, Will Hodgkinson, Andrew Mueller, Phelim O'Neill
- The Guardian - Film News
Anyone who tunes in to Five Live on a Friday afternoon is guaranteed to hear some heated movie discussion (dubbed "wittertainment") between the BBC's top film critic Mark Kermode and presenter Simon Mayo. The pair have forged an energetic and entertaining double-act on air, even finding time to branch out into screen work for The Culture Show. Yesterday Digital Spy caught up with the esteemed Dr Kermode to (more)...
- 1/13/2010
- by By Simon Reynolds
- Digital Spy
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