Mark Kermode: It's Only A Movie

Amidst speculation that he is to succeed Jonathan Ross for Film 2010, outspoken film critic Dr Mark Kermode is on usual self-deprecating form tonight, regaling from his recent autobiography, It’s Only A Movie. Confirming that he has never been asked and believes there are others more qualified for the role, his modesty seems somewhat unjustified as he enthusiastically amuses the audience with tales of his notable journalistic career.

Setting the tone with a wordlessly filmed metaphorical review of Transformers, fans of his impassioned rants were not disappointed as he sardonically recounts his many frustrations within film and censorship alike. Relaying his panic at Werner Herzog’s resigned apathy whilst being shot at during an interview, and describing an imperious confrontation with monarch-staple Helen Mirren, Kermode further proves that his vast cine-literacy is enhanced by his own spontaneous method of articulation.

Respectful but never sycophantic, and fearlessly honest, Radio Five’s quifftastic critic has a way of melting anecdotes through his cinematic experiences that proves rather captivating in the flesh. His homemade interpretation of the merits of 3D (in relation to Avatar) is particularly funny, requiring the audience to faithfully participate as asked in order to fully appreciate the ‘experience’. Elaborating on his ‘transcendental’ (and sincere, to the point of touching) obsession with The Exorcist, you can almost feel the Power of Christ compelling you to run straight out and watch it again.

Finally, before the over-running Q & A session comes to a close, he entertains us with his own musical tribute to the criminally overlooked sci-fi gem of the year, Moon, which although not in his usual slap-bass medium, is a fine tribute on Stylophone. Whether the future of Film 2010 includes Kermode or not, it is reassuring to know that the ‘Good Doctor’ will be unlikely to shed his own uniquely prescribed style of punditry.