Reviews

Back in 1977 I went to see Starwars for the very first time. The whole event, for me, was summed up in one word - “Wow!”

Since then, I’ve sat through a mixed bag of sci-fi, but I’ve never quite found that same thrill. I’ve seen good films. I’ve seen worthy films. I’ve said wow on a number of different occasions. But I never realised it would take me thirty years until my next full blown “Wow!”

I’d love to say that I found this perfect moment watching something worthy. Something literate, or at least something aimed at grown ups. However, at the risk of being eternally cast out from the Brotherhood of Culture Snobbery, I have to admit that I found cinematic Nirvana watching a feature length toy advertisement.

Top tip #1:  When you go to a gig on your own you have to be prepared for a bit of difficulty.

You see, it's all very easy when there are two of you. You can sing along with the best bits, and you can nod at each other when you get to a good bit you both like.  When you get out you can talk about how good or bad it was. If you're so inclined you can even have a bit of a cuddle while you're waiting for the support act to get lost. But the single most important reason to take a friend or lover to a gig with you is to save your spot while you go for beers.

The perfect antitode to Beyonce. Every now and then something completely brilliant comes along and reminds you that you were bored out of your skull without even realising it.

A Biography of Thailand's Bhumibol Adulyadej

By Paul M Handley