It's Only A Movie

As such as this isn't really an autobiography but not that's not what I was expecting. The book is filled with anecdotes looking at Kermode's enthusiasm with film and how it shaped his life. They are frequently amusing and you will enjoy this book if you have an interest in cinema/film even if you don't always agree with Kermode. The stories rub shoulders with his thoughts and opinions on his favourite films and genres.

He is very forthright in his opinions (even if he seems to be in a minority of one at times), but then perhaps that is a good thing given how passionate he clearly is. Sometimes the stories seem to go on a bit too long, but even so, I loved the story about his first experiences of reviewing videos for a radio programme, which he bluffs his way into with enthusiastic zeal, and then messes up spectacularly. Also enjoyable was his hate-love analysis of the musical Mama Mia! which was very witty (even though I actually liked that film, because of the music). I also enjoyed his hilarious story about trying to secure an interview with The Exorcist actress Linda Blair, in an unfamiliar cafe.

Kermode is obviously very passionate about, in particular more cult movies, and to the people he meets, it becomes apparent that this enthusiasm, even obsession, can be his undoing. In many respects, the potential embarrassments not only bring humour to the piece, but also serve to humanise the author, making him appear even more like an average fan, just like you and me.

Though he cheekily says his memoir was "inspired by real events" I did wonder if, as is sometimes the case with movies that are "based on a true story" or indeed other memoirs, how much of it is really true, and how much has been embellished or changed to make it more entertaining.
Being in my late 20's I'm too young to relate to his experience of what cinemas were like in the 70s or early 80's exactly with the political landscape of the time, which he sometimes mentions.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in films and cinema as I found it an enjoyable and amusing read.