American TV and film’s obsession with a British fantasy shows no sign of abating

She’s not by herself. For many American film and TV creators, pastoral landscapes, historic spires, mysterious Highland castles, and iconic red buses have always been irresistible attractions. The fascination with these settings persists unabated today, as evidenced by the popularity of My Oxford Year, a Netflix movie that ranks at the top of their film chart. In this story, an American Rhodes Scholar named Anna studies Victorian poetry in Oxford before returning to her job at Goldman Sachs back home. The underlying message is that she’s enjoying the best aspects of two worlds.

Ashley Thomas AKA Bashy reveals biggest hope for Netflix drama Hostage and how acting came before rapping

I immersed myself in ‘War Doctor,’ written by renowned Welsh surgeon David Nott, whose experiences have significantly influenced my character. Additionally, I had conversations with a doctor from Médecins sans Frontières who worked in Haiti. Yet, it’s essential to remember that they are ordinary people like us, which was also enlightening. Fundamentally, Alex enjoys playing football, socializing at the pub, and participating in everyday activities just as everyone else does. The aim was to avoid portraying him as a stereotypical doctor.

Hugh Dennis reveals potential for Outnumbered return – and talks working with partner Claire Skinner

The sofa is soft and plush, yet overly large; my short legs struggle to touch the ground when I lean against its back, thus requiring constant cushion adjustments. If reclined, it would offer supreme comfort, but sharing it with my co-star Claire [Skinner from Outnumbered] and our Labrador Ronnie becomes a challenge. A humorous play on words as Ronnie shares the name with Ronnie Barker. He often finds himself on the sofa, despite not being allowed to.

Hostage star Julie Delpy argues France is ready for a female leader – but not Marine Le Pen

According to Delpy, who was speaking with me over Zoom from Paris, there’s a strong possibility that France might elect its first female president. However, she does not believe Marine Le Pen will be the one, given her recent financial irregularities have put a damper on her campaign. Delpy suggests that these financial issues are more shocking to the French than any sex scandal, which makes sense, doesn’t it?

BAFTA winner Stephen Poliakoff calls out the troubling state of UK television drama – and how we can weaponise the past to save it

When the show unexpectedly became a success, I was given the opportunity to continue it with Perfect Strangers. In this series, Daniel, a young surveyor played by Matthew Macfadyen from the suburbs, finds himself amidst an extravagant family reunion filled with relatives he has never met before. As the event unfolds, secrets surface, shocking stories emerge, and deep-seated family resentments are revealed.