Favourite city: London
Reason for writing a blog: the adulation.
Last film I saw: Better Man, 2024, the story of Robbie William’s rise to fame and fortune as a member of the boy band Take That, and then his subsequent descent into drug and alcohol addiction. It’s a sad tale and one that’s all too common, but this is definitely in a league of its own. I don’t think many people would choose to be portrayed as a chimpanzee in their biopic, but then Robbie isn’t most people. It’s a raw and seemingly honest account, and he doesn’t shy away from his own faults and overweening egotism. Somehow it all works and Robbie the chimpanzee is surprisingly appealing. Charismatic even. I thoroughly enjoyed this offbeat tale of how a young, naïve person can be ruined by money and fame, but then turn it around. It’s definitely not all doom and gloom, and the musical numbers are wonderful. The scene where Take That takes over Regent Street, dancing and singing Rock DJ, is truly joyous.
Favourite book: A Suitable Boy by Vikram Seth. Possibly.
Current favourite podcast: The Rest is Entertainment – fascinating insight into the world of TV, film and books with Richard Osman and Marina Hyde. They’re incredibly well informed, but, more importantly, have a great rapport and are very funny.
TV I’m watching at the moment: Great British Bake-Off – comfort TV at its best. And Great British Bake-Off: An Extra Slice because I love Tom Allen’s ridiculous comments. I did catch Covid when I went to see it live a couple of years ago, but I don’t hold it against them. I’ve also started watching Alma’s Not Normal written by and starring Sophie Willan. Ridiculous in the best possible way.
Favourite activity: Travelling.
Least favourite activity: Cleaning, closely followed by gardening.
