The story, co-written by the Coen brothers and others, is based on a blockbuster sized book by Laura Hillenbrand.
Inevitably the story has to be retold. Jolie’s inexperience makes this an uneven exercise. The first half is strong, the second half isn’t, such that I found myself willing the Japanese Commandant to kill our protagonist to put him, and me out of our misery.
Ther movie is formulaic. The beginning has us with the hero, Louis Zamperini (played by Jack O’Connell), in a big bomber heading for some targets against Japan in WWII. As trouble begins, leading to the crash which makes up the real start of the movie, we also get flashbacks to his simple Italian-American childhood. This is effective, but it’s sentimental stuff. And it lets you know the kind of wholesome intentions of the movie. The only thing missing is mommas home made apple pie
There is a lot going on here, in three main sections: running, surviving on a raft, and the prison camps. That Zamperini suffers and endures is the point of the film, and in that way the narrative is very straight forward. There are villains and buddies. The skies rain bombs and the sea is full of sharks. Some people are merciless, and others kind. But in the middle, through every turn and travail, is Zamperini. “If you can take it, you can make it,” is a mantra in the film, and that’s the message. That doesn’t need over two hours.
In his own words this is an exploration of “the centrality of drugs and drug culture to the development of the British music business”,
A legendary manager in pop and rock, this account by Napier Bell is an exhaustive, largely accurate and illuminating insight into how drugs culture have enjoyed a symbiotic relationship.
His roster of artists under his management impresses, but his analysis crosses the industry, and both sides of the Atlantic
It is authoritative, intelligent, diligently researched and unpretentious , and largely avoids self -aggrandisement. his first hand experience of managing Marc Bolan , The Yardbirds ,Wham! and Japan- uses his wealth of contacts and personal experiences to tell the story of an industry in thrall to substance abuse. Where bad behaviour is not only tolerated but encouraged and where drugs are sometimes as important as talent,
I loved his inside track on the artists, but tired of the drugs tales after a while. Just like the real thing , there is only so much you want to take. He is disappointingly tight lipped about the indiscretions of some of his fellow managers, notably Tom Watkins. A policy of omerta reigns.
Somehow, despite being in my sixth decade, and a regular visitor to Wales I had never made St Davids. A t trip to the Pembrokeshire coast rectified that omission.
The UK’s smallest city is named after the patron saint of Wales, St David. Back in the 6th century, Dewi Sant, as he’s known in Welsh, founded monasteries across his homeland and France, including one in his local community.
He was born to a lady named Non, who also became a saint, and his birthplace is marked by the remains of St Non’s Chapel, easily reached on a 20-minute walk from St Davids centre.
Back in town, a spectacular cathedral, which has been a place of pilgrimage for hundreds of years, holds the saint’s remains and was built in the 12th century alongside his monastery. It’s said that two pilgrimages to the cathedral are equal to one pilgrimage to Rome, and it brings thousands of visitors from around the world to the tiny city every year – not to mention Welsh visitors who want to honour their saint in his final resting place.
The sweeping beaches of the Pembrokeshire coast were used as rehearsal locations for D Day. When i visited Tenby it was easy to see why.
Prior to D Day President Eisenhower visited the coast to check on preparations. I stopped at Solva and had a drink in the harbour pub, a pub where Eisenhower and Churchill had dropped by for refreshments much to the astonishment of the landlord.
Paced brilliantly and has the twists and turns of a thriller novel despite being a true story. Superbly researched.
This is more than simply an account of the attempt to assassinate Thatcher and her cabinet. It is also an exploration into the history and development of “the troubles” and covers the Mountbatten and Neave killings as part of the build up to Brighton.
Carroll is studiously detached and non judgemental. Brighton bomber Pat McGee is not portrayed as a hero, nor is the British establishment painted as the villains.
The Long War ultimately is deemed a failure, not so much by Carroll as by its participants. The heroes, if any exist are surely the Police, riven by inter departmental rivalries who triumph in identifying McGee using hard work, skill, determination, and luck.
Numerous vignettes and anecdotes lighten the story. Initial attempts to establish a casualty list were hampered by the number of Tories who had booked rooms in assumed names ,with assumed spouses, to cover illicit liaisons. Who were the casualties and survivors and how many were there? Everyone lost their clothes, so Marks and Spencer was opened up at 7am to enable delegates to buy replacement clothes for the conference later in the morning which went ahead- paid for by a Conservative party tab.
Remarkably, Thatcher left the police to get on with the job of tracking down the bombers with no interference or pressure.
However Carroll succeeds in pursuing a fundamental point. McGee came very close to succeeding in his assassination attempt- what would have happened if he had?
Those, like myself, familiar with the overall study will be enthralled by the detail. Those unfamiliar, will find this an invaluable insight into one of the great political stories of the late 20th century
Rangers and the Famous ICF: My Life With Scotland’s Most-Feared Football Hooligan Gang- Sandy Chugg, Book review
**** out of five
I knew nothing about the Scottish firms beyond their propensity to behave appallingly at any game in England be it club or national.
I have never seen a Sottish club side play, but did see the national side in Euro96 versus Holland. Apart from their being drunk at 8.30am as I was turning up for work, they were good as gold.
A number of factors contributed. Birmingham is a City still enraged by the IRA pub bombings, The Republican element of Scotland’s support, particularly that of Celtic, was always going to kept on a short leash by their ( Rangers) loyalist compatriots. Villa’s mob were out the night before to “encourage” respectful behaviour, and that was honoured. Hollands support was no pushover either, and the Scots clearly did not fancy a battle on several fronts. So the overwhelming mood was good natured. The Dutch and Brummies enjoyed the Scots’ “Jimmy Hill is a Poof” chants and flags. There has never been any love lost between the cities of Coventry and Birmingham.
Chuggs’s authenticity and credibility is beyond question. However his claims of being a reformed non combatant family man are less convincing. But that has no impact on his accounts of historic activity.
I was not aware that the scots had amalgamated their club firms to create a National one- The SNF. Whether they travelled on SNCF trains in France is unclear. I was equally unaware that the two Dundee firms mobs had teamed up to create the Dundee utility.
The violence depicted is brutal, visceral and compromising. Chugg, with the ICF is at the centre of it. Their legendary trouncing of Celtic : when fifty ICF took on a thousand Celtic fans before the controversial title decider of 1999 and the Raid on the Gallowgate: when the ICF took it to the pubs of the Gallowgate, Celtic’s spiritual home, are recounted in reverential terms.
Although the firms of many rivals are namechecked, the ICFs romp through the lower leagues after Rangers’ punishment demotion is ignored, as is Ross McGill, Glasgow and Scotland organised Crime Kingpin and Union Bears leader.
Well written, humorous and self deprecating, for me Chugg tries a little too hard in the final chapters to convince us that he is a reformed and changed man. He also name checks his solicitor, who presumably ensured that there would be no legal come back on his tales and admissions of illegal behaviour.
Th book serves well as a testament to the bigotry and sectarian hatred which permeates the game in Scotland. As a first hand record of football violence it is unsurpassed. A bleak tale of what it was like to be young and poor and Glasgow
An astonishing book which skilfully weaves science, geology and geography with informed conjecture to reappraise 75000 years of human history
Origin, Evolution, and Transformations of Human Civilization and Earth: Evidence of Cosmic Impacts, Climate Changes, and Ancient Civilization Decline are all pulled into the equation
Bisceglia takes readers on a journey through time, exploring life’s beginnings and the cyclical nature of human civilizations. He presents evidence of catastrophic events, such as cometary bombardments, climate changes, and reductions in genetic diversity that have shaped our past. He challenges conventional theories and presents compelling evidence for the existence of advanced ancient civilizations like Sundaland and Mount Atlas, which have been lost to time.
Life and Universe: “Living” Vs “Dead” Perspective Emergence-
Bisceglia challenges the traditional view that the cosmos is “dead,” presenting a “living” perspective based on evidence of abundant life in the cosmos. He examines different origin theories and delves into the hypotheses of life arising from non-life and being distributed by space dust, exploring evidence for microorganisms across the Universe.
Origin Theories: “Big Bang” and “M-Theory”-
Bisceglia argues that the theory of the Big Bang, while widely accepted, is outdated and proposes that the “M-Theory” provides a more fitting explanation for the Universe’s origin. The “M-Theory” suggests that infinitely small, vibrating strings form an endless number of three-dimensional membranes, each representing a universe. These membranes, existing in eleven dimensions, occasionally collide, creating “collisions” that might have been previously misunderstood as the “Big Bang.” He suggests that our perception of time is merely an illusion and that reality might have no beginning or end.
The Big Bang theory is a simpler explanation for the observable universe, adhering to the principle of Occam’s Razor, which suggests that the simplest explanation is often preferred until more complex theories are proven necessary.
The Big Bang theory has been successful in predicting various phenomena in cosmology, which lends it considerable credibility that M-Theory has yet to achieve.
The concept of “infinitely small, vibrating strings” is a theoretical construct that has not been observed directly, and thus its existence is speculative.
The concept of eleven dimensions is purely theoretical and has not been empirically verified; it remains a mathematical construct without direct physical evidence.
The idea of membranes colliding in higher dimensions is a feature of a specific branch of string theory, which is not universally accepted even within the theoretical physics community.
Psychological studies show that humans and other animals have an innate sense of time, necessary for survival, which suggests that time has a basis in biological reality.
Philosophical and theological perspectives often posit a creation event or a prime mover, implying a specific beginning to reality.
Theories About Life’s Origins: Spontaneous Generation and Panspermia-
Bisceglia examines two contrasting theories about how life began here: the concept of life forming from inorganic substances and panspermia. Abiogenesis, the more accepted theory, proposes that life spontaneously arose from non-living matter, inorganic materials combining by chance within hydrothermal vents. However, Bisceglia highlights the improbability of complex enzymes assembling randomly, citing calculations suggesting a one in 10^40,000 chance.
He then presents panspermia, supported by scientists like Fred Hoyle and Francis Crick, which suggests that microorganisms predate Earth’s ability to generate life, arriving from space. Evidence of microorganisms in ancient meteors and fossils dating back 4.3 billion years strengthen this argument. Bisceglia concludes that life’s existence on Earth predates Earth’s ability to spontaneously generate it, leading to the possibility of extraterrestrial origins.
The hydrothermal vent hypothesis relies on the presence of specific minerals and environmental conditions that may not have been prevalent or stable enough on the early Earth to facilitate abiogenesis.
The improbability argument does not consider the role of natural selection, which can act on small, random changes to gradually increase complexity and function over time.
The discovery of extremophiles on Earth—organisms that can survive in extreme conditions—suggests that life could have originated in harsh environments on Earth without the need for extraterrestrial sources.
Fossils dating back 4.3 billion years may not be definitive evidence of life, as the interpretation of these fossils can be contentious and alternative abiotic explanations for their formation might exist.
The improbability of complex enzymes assembling randomly does not rule out abiogenesis if alternative pathways or mechanisms for the origin of life exist that have not yet been discovered or fully understood.
Life Evidence Across Universe, Including Space Microorganisms
Bisceglia further supports panspermia by showcasing the abundance of life evidence across the Universe, particularly as microorganisms. He cites research indicating Halley’s comet contains biological substances, organic molecules and ethyl alcohol on comet 67P/Churyumov Gerasimenko, and potential bacteria or archaea in 4.5 billion-year-old meteorites. This evidence suggests that existence beyond Earth is not confined to our planet and travels through cosmic bodies. This leads to the notion of a Universe that is alive rather than dead, challenging the traditional physics model where life is merely a “local accident.”
While Bisceglia points to evidence of organic molecules and potential microorganisms in space, the presence of these substances does not necessarily confirm life, as abiotic processes can also produce complex organic compounds.
Homo Reloaded Summary
Mysterious “Reloads,” Civilization Near-Extinctions, Sundaland Disappearance, and “Y-Chromosome Catastrophe” are at the centre of this well researched and simply explained work
Bisceglia dives deeper into several mysterious “restarts” that human civilizations have faced throughout history, focusing on the near-extinction events, examining the factors that contributed to the disappearance of advanced civilizations like Sundaland, and dissecting the “Y-Chromosome Catastrophe” and its potential causes.
Decline in Homo Sapiens Population 75,000 and 12.8 Thousand Years Ago
Bisceglia examines two significant population declines in Homo sapiens history. The first, approximately 75,000 years ago, possibly triggered by the eruption of the Toba supervolcano and a subsequent volcanic winter, significantly reduced the Sapiens population. The second decline happened around 12,800 years ago, coinciding with the comet impacts and the Younger Dryas period. He explores various possible causes for the demographic collapse, including climate change, warfare, and catastrophic events, proposing that these factors might have acted in conjunction.
“Genetic Bottleneck” Reduced Sapiens Population to Low Levels
Bisceglia analyzes the idea of “bottlenecks” and how they affect a species’ genetic diversity. He highlights the severe bottleneck that our specie experienced
Human Civilization Origins: Göbekli Tepe, North Africa, Sahara (E.G., Atlantis)
Bisceglia challenges the conventional view of human civilization origins, exploring evidence of advanced pre-agricultural societies in Göbekli Tepe and North Africa. He examines the possibility of a sophisticated civilization in the Saharan region, potentially linked to Plato’s Atlantis, before its desertification. He analyzes the evidence of advanced construction techniques and sophisticated understanding of astronomy, challenging the traditional narrative of human development.
Göbekli Tepe: Unearthing and Implications of a 12-Millennia-Old Stone Site
Bisceglia examines Göbekli Tepe, a megalithic site in Turkey that’s 12 millennia old, highlighting its significant implications for our understanding of humanity’s civilizational origins. He describes the site’s remarkable stone structures, suggesting it could mean that an advanced pre-agricultural society with sophisticated organizational and construction capabilities existed. The lack of burial evidence at Göbekli Tepe leads Bisceglia to explore alternative theories about its purpose, suggesting it might have served as a ritualistic centre or a site for communal gatherings. The Site’s Stone Structures Suggest Advanced civilistaion
Facilitators of Civilization: Connections Between Akhenaten, Moses, Jesus, and the Turin Shroud
Bisceglia explores the role of people he calls “facilitators,” who significantly influenced how human consciousness and civilization developed. He focuses on the enigmatic Pharaoh Akhenaten, suggesting a connection to Moses and their shared monotheistic beliefs. He then delves into the person of Jesus Christ, examining his origins, features, and possible connections to the Turin Shroud, ultimately questioning whether he was a “revolutionary” from another world.
The Revolutionary Religious and Cultural Changes Under Akhenaten-
Bisceglia examines the reign of Akhenaten, the Egyptian monarch who initiated a radical religious revolution, introducing the worship of Aton, the “one true God” depicted as the solar disk. He describes Akhenaten’s monotheistic beliefs, rejection of traditional Egyptian gods, and the establishment of Akhetaten as a capital city dedicated to Aton. Bisceglia analyzes how these theological shifts includingAkhenaten’s Monotheism and Reverence for Aton in Egypt impacted Egyptian society, leading to conflict with the powerful priesthood and ultimately contributing to Akhenaten’s downfall.
The only flaw in the book is a tendency to over-argue astonishing claims. Sometime raw simplicity is best
Alan Edwards with Keith Richards in Nice, 1982. Photograph: Denis O’Regan/Courtesy of Alan Edwards
This is one of the best insights into the Rock and pop business i have read.
**** out of five
Alan Edwards, founder of public relations company the Outside Organisation has had a client list that reads like the who’s who of modern rock and pop, his clients have included David Bowie (with whom Edwards worked for nearly four decades), the Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Led Zeppelin, Blondie, Prince and the Spice Girls.
Pacy. witty, self deprecating and well told the story abounds with energy. His admiration and affectio for Bowie is clear.
Why did he succeed? He was smarter than most of his contemporaries and clients, with the notable exceptions of Bowie, Jagger and McCartney. he also worked phenomenally hard and didn’t succumb to the rock and roll lifestyle, he was too busy for that.
Snappy title for one of the worst books I have read in a very long time.
It is reheated nonsense scraped from other internet forums with virtually no first person accounts whatsoever.
I can find no biographical details on the author. However his language , Stroller), sidewalk, and soccer, suggest he is American in a book devoid of authenticity or credibility.
Paul claims to be a Wolves fan but offers precious little first hand evidence or accounts. Thus it becomes a combination of third party anecdote, fantasy, conjecture and embarrassing cod analysis littered with flawed conclusions
He also fails to understand that the highest grade of hooligan is category C, not A.
In all probability this book was written by artificial intelligence.
I saw Tina Turner at Portman rd football ground Ipswich thirty five years ago in 1990. At fifty years old, she was fit, energetic and had a magnificent voice.
In its seventh year (and the longest-running show) at the West End’s Aldwych Theatre, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is now embarking on its first UK and Ireland tour in 2025. In a bravura tale of compelling performances, powerhouse vocals, and a story as inspiring and raw, as the woman herself.
This is not a ‘jukebox’ musical, playwright Katori Hall skilfully weaves the music and narrative, never afraid to let the latter lead the way. The music is not performed chronologically.
Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy is outstanding as Tina , uncannily capturing Tina’s body movement and shimmies. Opposite David King-Yombo as the violent but gifted Ike Turner .
Director brings the best out of Chizaram Ochuba-Okafor shines as Young Tina. Indeed the entire family, including Alline Bullock, as Tina’s sister and Rush and Chambers and Letitia Hector, as Tina’s parents, provide vital depth to the proceedings
Mark Thompson’s set, Bruno Poet’s lighting, and Jeff Sugg’s projection design work are a joy and the finale in which a live concert performance is evoked is stunning.
Inevitably Nutbush city limits, Proud Mary and River Deep Mountain High seize the musical moments But private dancer and we don’t need another hero come close. MacCarthy becomes Tina in the same way that Alexandra burke became Whitney in the bodyguard. Her vocals are faultless, imitating Tina but still breathing her own personality into the songs.
At 75 minutes a half, we are given our money’s worth, yet the ending is a little abrupt. The role that chance and David Bowie played in resurrecting her career is a trifle underplayed but realistically you cannot fault the song choice or narrative arc.
This is a carefully and lavishly crafted musical that pushes at the boundaries of the jukebox musical and tribute forms. A terrific evening’s entertainment
Often described as a ‘super-orchestra’ , it brings together outstanding musicians from the UK and abroad, including principals and leaders from other orchestras, notable soloists and members of distinguished chamber groups.
‘Sinfonia of London sets the gold standard – an orchestra of generals that takes the unfashionable, the obscure, the overlooked, and makes it unmissable.’ (The Sunday Times)
The orchestra comes together for special projects throughout the year, including concerts and recordings, to create exceptional musical experiences.
John Wilson and Sinfonia of London performing Rodgers and Hammerstein’s greatest hits at one of the finest Symphomy hall in the world promised to be a musical extravaganza and delivered.
From the opening overture the lush sonic sound bathed us in is magnificence before the special guest soloists Louise Dearman, Nathaniel Hackmann & Scarlett Strallen arrive to work their magic
The concert included music from “South Pacific,” “The Sound of Music,” “Oklahoma!,” “Carousel,” and “The King and I.” The performance showcased a number of popular songs like “Lady and the Tramp”
Louise Dearman was terrific in the comic standard- to keep my love alive
Scarlet Strallen mdd Julie Andrews a distant memory with her take on Sound of Music
There was barely a dry eye in the house for Nathaniel Hackmann’s emotional “You’ll Never walk Alone”
Wilson’s decision to resurrect , reappraise and rearrange and represent Rodgers and Hammerstein’s back catalogue was fully vindicated , my only gripe was that the first half was a full hour, while the second half struggled to surpass the forty minute mark- we wanted more!
Garyswordz 