In Flight

Regular readers of this blog will have realised that I don’t watch many films. However, the recent long flights from Istanbul to Delhi and back tempted me to give Turkish Airlines In Flight movies a go.

Sorting out the operation of that handset thingy took a wee while, but in the end even my techno-phobia was overcome and the Home button produced a series of options. Actually, I rather enjoy watching the map of the route with its airplane cruising across the mountainous terrain and a raft of cities with unpronounceable names.

So, where to start? Well, I like comedy and I opted for a Canadian Rom-com starring Daniel Radcliffe and Zoe Kazan – What if? There was a lot of good script about the difficulties of being young and in love, or not in love, and one or two moments of truly black farce. The first, involving a door opening and an already open window, made me scream. At least, I think that’s why I was suddenly the object of so much interest.

Then I followed the DH’s lead and watched a DRAMA. It was called Nebraska. This 2013 production in B & W was full of warmth, human interest, pathos and some blistering one liners delivered by the most unlikely characters. Dad has received one of those pestiferous letters telling him he’s won a million dollars. He is a little confused, or on the Alzeimher’s path, and doesn’t understand anything other than Winner The film plays out family pressures, past feuds, past loves, and greed. The conclusion was heart-stopping and maybe asks us all to think about how we look at those living in that twilight. Amazing performances from so many: Bruce Dern, Will Forte, June Squibb, Bob Odenkirk, Angela McEwan.

Then, in the spirit of personal indulgence, I watched Austenland. Another rom-com, but with the Jane Austen twist that those of us who write regency romance find irresistible. Not a work of great depth, but hugely entertaining and I suspect a faithful rendering of Shannon Hale’s original book. (suspicions rest on her writing the screenplay along with Jerusha Hess) Cast included  , Brett McKenzie and Jane Seymour. Lovely frocks and a truly wonderful set.