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  Keri Russell, JJ Feild, Jennifer Coolidge, Brett McKenzie and Jane Seymour. Lovely frocks and a truly wonderful set.