Download The Gobetweenies Ep 4

Episode 4 of The Gobetweenies aired on Radio 4 on Friday.
You can download an MP3 of it here.
It will be repeated on BBC Radio 4 Extra on Wednesday at 12:30am and 22:00pm.
Thanks as always go to Lora.

Fright Night Clip

Tags: Movie Trailers, Movies Blog

TV & Radio Diary - 1st June - 10th June

Wednesday 1st June 2011
How To Train Your Dragon - 10:00am, 8:00pm - Sky Movies Premiere, HD
The Gobetweenies: Ep4 - 12:30pm, 22:00pm - BBC Radio 4 Extra
Doctor Who: Gridlock - 12:00pm - Watch

Thursday 2nd June 2011
How To Train Your Dragon - 10:00am, 5:45pm - Sky Movies Premiere, HD
Doctor Who: Daleks In Manhattan - 12:00pm, 5:00pm - Watch

Friday 3rd June 2011
Doctor Who: Tooth And Claw - 12:50am - Watch
Doctor Who: Evolution Of The Daleks - 12:00pm, 5:00pm - Watch

Sunday 5th June 2011
Doctor Who: The Satan Pit - 01:20am - Watch

Monday 6th June 2011
Doctor Who: The Satan Pit - 12:20am - Watch
Doctor Who: The Lazarus Experiment - 5:00pm - Watch

Tuesday 7th June 2011
Doctor Who: The Lazarus Experiment - 12:00pm - Watch
Doctor Who: 42 - 5:00pm - Watch

Wednesday 8th June
Doctor Who: 42 - 12:00pm - Watch

Thursday 9th June
Doctor Who - Human Nature - 12:00pm, 5:00pm - Watch
St Trinian's II - 1:00pm, 8:00pm - Sky Movies Family, HD

Friday 10th June
Doctor Who: The Family Of Blood - 12:00pm, 5:00pm - Watch

Much Ado On Stage Photos

The Daily Mail have published the above set of photos of David and Catherine on stage in Much Ado About Nothing at the Wyndham's Theatre, London.

The show is currently in previews with the official opening night taking place tomorrow.

You can read the Daily Mail article on their website here.

The Constellation Awards

The Doctor Who News Page is reporting that David has been nominated for Best Male Performance in the 2011 Constellation Awards for his role as the Doctor in The End Of Time Part Two, also up for the same award is Matt Smith for his role as the Doctor in A Christmas Carol.

David won the award last year for his portrayal of the Doctor in The Waters Of Mars.

A full list of nominees can be found on the awards website here.

Winners will be announced on 16th July 2011.

Film Poll

pollcode.com free polls

Which of David Tennant's new films are you most looking forward to?

Fright Night The Decoy Bride

Fright Night Rated R

io9 report that the MPAA has given David's new movie Fright Night an R rating for "for bloody horror violence, and language including some sexual references".
The film is released in the USA on 19th August 2011 and in the UK on 2nd September 2011.

The Brave Tin Soldier

The BBC podcast site has now uploaded David reading the Hans Christian Andersen story The Brave Tin Soldier.
Click here to download the story.

Guest Blogger: Fright Night Preview

Our guest blogger this week is Tiffany McQuay who was lucky enough to attend a preview screening of David's new movie, Fright Night, back in March, obviously as this is a preview it may contain a few spoilers:

When it comes to remakes you never quite know what you’re going to get in the end. This is especially true when the movie being remade is 80’s horror cult classic Fright Night. How do you re-imagine a film already known for campy goodness for the audience of today? Simple! Give us a believable setting and top-notch actors. Throw in a fun story line, 3D effects and you might just have something.
Last night I was fortunate enough to attend a pre-screening of the new Fright Nightstarring Anton Yelchin, Colin Ferrell, David Tennant and Christopher Mintz-Plasse. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the film. I’m of course familiar with the original starring Chris Sarandon as Jerry the Vampire and Roddy McDowall as Peter Vincent, Vampire Hunter. I have seen it several times through the years and still enjoy its campy goodness. However, this new version has a much bigger bite and the cast is… well let’s just say this isn’t your 80’s Fright Night.
This new Fright Night is set on the outskirts of the Las Vegas desert, outside and away from the glitz and lights of the well known Strip. Here we see a community full of empty homes just begging for a vampire to take up residence. It’s really a great concept when you think about it. Las Vegas is a 24hr city. People work all hours and unfortunately it’s the type of place where you can believe someone could just disappear inexplicably. The main character of Charlie Brewster, played by Anton Chelchin (Star Trek - 2009; Charlie Bartlett - 2007) is just your average teen trying to make it through the day to day of high school. His single mother, played by Toni Collette (United States of Tara - 2009; Little Miss Sunshine – 2006), a local realtor has just sold the house next door to a very attractive looking Jerry, Colin Farrell (In Bruges - 2008; Miami Vice - 2006). The only problem is that Jerry is a vampire and not the sparkly, friendly kind.
Other than the fact that Charlie’s mom is drooling over Jerry’s biceps, he doesn’t give this new resident much thought. That is until his former geeky BFF; Ed, played by Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Kick-Ass – 2010; Superbad - 2007) points out that people are disappearing and, oh yeah, Jerry? He’s a vampire. Charlie doesn’t want to believe, but it’s not too long before Ed himself is nowhere to be found and Charlie quickly has his own proof.
The only one who Charlie can turn to for guidance is Las Vegas illusionist and reported vampire expert Peter Vincent, played by the delicious Scottish actor David Tennant. Tennant is probably best known as the former 10th Doctor in the very popular sci-fi program Doctor Who. Now I have to make a small disclaimer. I’m a huge David Tennant fan. I think he is brilliant! He is the main reason I wanted to see Fright Night. I’ve never been disappointed by his characters, which is why I always look forward to his work. He’s also very easy on the eyes. So forgive me for proceeding to enlighten those who may not be as familiar with his body of work. Unfortunately, in the States unless you are a “Whovian” or an avid fan of British film and television most Americans only know Tennant for playing Barty Crouch Jr. in Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire (2005). This is a travesty since Tennant is a very accomplished award winning stage and film actor. He was the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Hamlet in 2009 causing the entire run to sell out within hours. If you weren’t lucky enough to see it, check out the DVD available online. He is considered to be the most popular Doctor Who ever, which is saying something for a TV show of almost 50 yrs and I doubt you would find a child alive in the UK who didn’t recognize him as The Doctor. He’s practically a national treasure. It’s that talent and magnetism that makes his portrayal as Peter Vincent a stand out performance.
In this updated version Vincent is a British, Chriss Angel/Russell Brand-esque illusionist and self proclaimed vampire expert. He drinks too much, swears, wears black eyeliner, has a penchant for late night internet shopping and wears extremely tight leather pants. Knowing my audience as I do, I just want to say DT fans will not be disappointed and yes you do get shirtless Tennant, a lot of shirtless Tennant I can promise you that. No one rocks “rock star” quite like Tennant. No one! Seriously though, Tennant is fantastic and plays Vincent with great skill making what could be a very campy role into one of unpredictable fun. I’ve never yet been disappointed with Tennant’s work. His comic timing is spot on when needed and he gives great depth to what can easily be a two dimensional character. He effectively becomes the much needed mentor to Yelton’s Charlie. I was glued to the screen not quite knowing what he would do next.
Most enjoyable for me were the scenes between Yelchin, Farrell and Tennant. All three actors were a joy to watch on screen. Colin Ferrall was quite threatening and foreboding as Jerry, but to be fair I expected that. His vampire is mean and vindictive without a doubt. The vampires in Fright Night aren’t easily disposed of which makes them quite intimidating so there are some very exciting chase and escape scenes. I’d have to say the one character that I didn’t care for as much as I’d hoped for was Ed. He’s not the most likeable character at times and while he does provide some comic moments he seemed more a whiny teen that I didn’t miss when gone.
For those concerned about the horror aspect, know that there is definitely some blood and gore going on in the film, but not too much. I think the majority of movie goers, even those who are squeamish will be able to handle it.
In the end the true hero is Charlie. The plot stays very close to the original changing a few things here and there, but I don’t think fans will be disappointed. The pacing in the beginning of the film seemed a little slow, but it eventually speeds up. The 3D effects while not finished (this was just a screening) were interesting in parts, but honestly I don’t think they were needed. Perhaps the final cut will justify the need for 3D, but I feel seeing this in 2D would be just as enjoyable. There are some fun action sequences and I really loved what they did with Jerry’s house. (No I’m not going to tell you). The ending wrapped up a little too quickly, but as I said before this is a screening and a lot can change between now and August 19th, the reported release date per IMDB.
All in all I had a lot of fun viewing this film. The audience at the screening all seemed to love it. Everyone cheered and applauded at the end and there were smiles aplenty. No one seemed dissatisfied and I know I sure wasn’t disappointed. I recommend this to movie goers and fans alike. This was a fun movie! One more thing DT fans, just go. Leather trousers are NOT to be missed! =)

Audio Book Competition

Thanks to our friends at Orion Books we have a VERY exciting competition for you!

You could win one of three copies of their brilliant new audio book, My Sister Lives On The Mantlepiece, read by David Tennant.

The book has been recieving rave reviews:

'quite simply, stunning ... One of the most compelling listens ever, beautifully read by David Tennant, who said: "I couldn't put this down, I had to record the book." With music by Peter Rinne, who also produces. Meant for children of 10 and over this is one any adult will love and weep over too.' DAILY EXPRESS

'David Tennant felt he had to record this book, and no wonder - it's brilliant for both adults and older children ... Intensely moving, starkly real and ultimately heartening.' OBSERVER

'It's instantly clear why David Tennant made to time to record Annabel Pitcher's debut ... You can hear Tennant's respect for Pitcher's writing, which covey’s a boy's budding emotional antennae and irreducible vivacity in ever sentence.' TIME OUT

If you'd like to be in with a chance simply answer this question:

Which of David's Doctor Who co stars is he currently appearing on the West End stage with?

A. Billie Piper

B. Catherine Tate

C. Freema Agyeman

Send your answer to jack@david-tennant.com

Three winners will be selcted at random from those with the correct answers
The closing date is 12pm on Friday 27th May 2011.

Good luck!!

If you're unsuccessful but would still like to listen to this amazing story you can buy the audiobook in our shop here or download it from audible here.

Forum Closing Tomorrow

Sarah and I have come to a very difficult decision:

Dear all,
This is to let you know that Jack and I have come to the extremely difficult decision to close this forum.
As most of you will know Jack and I have both been suffering from very difficult issues in our private lives, these issues have gone on for at least the last six months and we feel that it's no longer fair to expect other people to manage the forum for us.
We know that you will be upset by this decision, but believe me when I tell you it took us hours to discuss and has even caused me sleepless nights and I'm sure you'll all respect our decision.
We will continue to run projects for David's birthday and Christmas etc and we are looking at different ways for fans to interact with the site, but unfortunately the forum will no longer be a part of d-t.com
We genuinely want to thank each and everyone of you who have helped this forum over the years, you're a credit to Mr Tennant as his fans.
The forum will officially close tomorrow so please make sure that you have saved everything that you would like to and gotten contact details from friends etc before 9am gmt on 25th May.
Thanks for everything.
Love Sarah x

Tv & Radio Diary: 22nd May - 29th May

Sunday 22nd May 2011
The Weakest Link: Doctor Who Special - 11:50pm - Watch

Monday 23rd May 2011
Doctor Who: Fear Her - 4:30pm - Watch

Tuesday 24th May
Doctor Who: Fear Her - 11:00am - Watch
Doctor Who: Doomsday - 4:40pm - Watch

Wednesday 25th May
Doctor Who: Doomsday - 11:00am - Watch
The Gobetweenies: Ep3 - 12:30pm, 22:00pm - BBC Radio 4 Extra
Diet Or My Husband Dies - 9:00pm - Watch

Thursday 26th May
Doctor Who: Smith And Jones - 11:00am, 4:30pm - Watch

Friday 27th May
How To Train Your Dragon - 10:00am, 8:00pm - Sky Movies Premiere , HD
Doctor Who: The Shakespeare Code - 11:00am, 4:30pm - Watch
The Gobetweenies: Ep 4 - 11:30am - BBC Radio 4
St Trinian's 2: The Legend Of Fritton's Gold - 1:25pm, 8:00pm - Sky Movies Family, HD
How To Train Your Dragon - 8:00pm - Sky 3D

Saturday 28th May
Weakest Link: Doctor Who Special - 8:15am - Watch
Doctor Who: The Next Doctor - 9:20am, 3:45pm - Watch
How To Train Your Dragon - 10am - Sky Premiere, HD, Sky 3D
How To Train Your Dragon - 4:00pm - Sky 3D
Doctor Who At The Proms - 5:00pm - Watch
How To Train Your Dragon - 8:00pm - Sky Premiere, HD
Doctor Who: Planet Of The Dead - 8:00pm - Watch

Sunday 29th May
Weakest Link: Doctor Who Special - 1:35am - Watch
How To Train Your Dragon - 10:00am, 8:00pm - Sky Premiere, HD
Doctor Who: The Army Of Ghosts - 11:45am - Watch
Doctor Who At The Proms - 12:45pm - Watch
Doctor Who: Planet Of The Dead - 2:05pm - Watch
Doctor Who: The Impossible Planet - 8:00pm, 10:55pm - Watch

Air Dates For Tales Of Hans Christian Andersen

The air dates for the Hans Christian Andersen podcasts that David will be reading have been confirmed as The Brave Tin Soldier on 24th May 2011 and The Fir Tree on 28th June 2011.
You can visit the official BBC site here.
Thanks to Timegeek.

This Is Jinsy

It has been confirmed on the official Much Ado About Nothing site here, that David will be apperaing in an episode of a new comedy, This Is Jinsy, on Sky Atlantic this summer.
The pilot, which aired last year on BBC Three earnt a prestigious Rose d'Or award nomination.
Sky Atlantic confirmed it had picked up the series earlier this year here.
The British Comedy Guide says:
A surreal sitcom set on Jinsy, an island whose 762 residents are monitored by 1,067 tessellators. These tessellators include video cameras for surveillance as well as little screens to allow the residents to watch important island events, such as the tri-annual island cow wash (live from Glotters field). They also include a handy slot for paying fines, and a sphincter nozzle for product and pill downloads.Arbiter Maven (the 17th Arbiter and 'Wearer of the Hat') is assisted by Operative Sporall (nice hair and 'Wearer of the Beige Suit'). From the Great Tower in the parish of Veen, they observe video feeds from the tessellators and keep a watchful eye on the residents.In the pilot episode Maven and Sporall must travel to Old Jinsy to try and unite the inhabitants of the small land mass with the main island.
We'll have more news about air dates as we get it.

Bear Snores On

We've just discovered a delightful addition to our audio book collection and the rest of you with children will no doubt agree!
David has narrated Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman and it's been released in a book and CD set which is now available in our shop for £5.99 here.

About the book:
It seems like Bear can sleep through anything. As a succession of animals enter his cave to escape the fierce storm, he continues to snore. Mouse makes a nice warm fire, Hare cooks popcorn and Badger brings treats...They are having a great time. But when Bear wakes up and realises he's missed out on the fun, his visitors fear the worst. Can Bear be persuaded to join the party? This read-aloud rhyming story has fun, suspense and a happy ending - with Jane Chapman's beautiful, captivating illustrations and Karma Wilson's absorbing, lyrical words perfectly depicting the companionship of the warm, cosy cave and the contrast with the wild storm outside.

Download The Gobetweenies Ep3

Episode 3 of The Gobetweenies aired this morning on Radio 4.

You can download an MP3 of it here.

It will be repeated on BBC Radio 4 Extra on Wednesday at 12:30am and 22:00pm.

The Gobetweenies: Befriending Freddie

The last episode of The Gobetweenies, Befriending Freddie, will air on Friday 27th May at 11:30am on BBC Radio 4.

The BBC have released the following info:

David Tennant and Sarah Alexander star as the exes determined to be double not single parents and bring the kids up together apart.
But Lucy needs compensation for moving house every week...
If it's Wednesday it must be Holloway.
It turns out Mimi's new husband says he is into fatherhood after all, and Lucy tells her Dad and Tom all about Mum's condition...
Mimi is desperate to bring the kids to New York for the premiere of her new husband's play but Tom has found a new friend whose cute yogic mother Joe is drawn to...
When Lucy refuses to miss out on her best friend's birthday because of a planned visit to her stepfather in New York, Mimi fails to get Joe's back-up.

Cast List:

Joe ..... David Tennant
Mimi ..... Sarah Alexander

Tom ...... Finlay Christie

Lucy ..... Phoebe Abbott

Jennifer ..... Emily Bruni

Freddie ...... Oliver Dillon

Harry ...... Stuart Milligan
Writer: Marcella Evaristi
Director: Marilyn Imrie

Producer: Gordon Kennedy

An Absolutely Production for BBC Radio 4.

Front Row Interview

David & Catherine Tate were interviewed about Much Ado About Nothing on last night's Front Row. Download an MP3 of it here.

Thanks to Lora as always :)

My Sister Lives On The Mantlepiece

Thanks to Orion Books we have a special preview clip of David narrating My Sister Lives On The Mantlepiece.

Listen to it here! Buy it in our shop here!

Ten-year-old Jamie Matthews has just moved to the Lake District with his Dad and his teenage sister, Jasmine for a 'Fresh New Start'. Five years ago his sister's twin, Rose, was blown up by a terrorist bomb. His parents are wrecked by their grief, Jasmine turns to piercing, pink hair and stops eating. The family falls apart. But Jamie hasn't cried in all that time. To him Rose is just a distant memory. Jamie is far more interested in his cat, Roger, his birthday Spiderman T-shirt, and in keeping his new friend Sunya a secret from his dad. And in his deep longing and unshakeable belief that his Mum will come back to the family she walked out on months ago. When he sees a TV advert for a talent show, he feels certain that this will change everything and bring them all back together once and for all.
Narrated by ten year old Jamie, a stunning debut novel about the tragedy that tears apart his family after a terrorist attack, and how they rebuild their lives. Unabridged edition.

Get The Look: Superman Converse

We've had lots of interest in where to get David's Superman Converse since he appeared on The Graham Norton Show wearing a pair earlier this month.

We're pleased to say we now stock them in our shop and you can purchase a pair for £49.99 here.

David Nominated For TV Choice Award

David has been nominated for Best Actor for his role in Single Father at this year's TV Choice Awards, Single Father is also nominated for Best New Drama.

This stage of voting is the longlist nominees. This stage closes at midnight on 10th June and then the shortlist will be announced.

Please click here to vote for David and Single Father!

The Decoy Bride Update

Just a quick update that The Deocy Bride was shown at the Cannes Film Festival and was sold to Italy (Videa) Australia (Pinnacle) and Brazil (Mares). Which is brilliant news :)

David & Catherine On Today

David and Catherine were featured on yesterday's Today programme on BBC Radio 4.
You can listen to their interview here.

David & Catherine On Front Row

David and Catherine will be interviewed about their new play Much Ado About Nothing on Front Row tomorrow from 7.15pm on BBC Radio 4.

Wembley's Greatest Events - Live Earth

MUSIC ROYALTY GO HEAD TO HEAD IN WEMBLEY SHOWDOWN
Wembley Stadium’s 25 Greatest Events battle for fan votes
www.wembleystadium.com/greatestevent

4th May 2011: Wembley Stadium has announced plans to host its biggest ever battle as 25 legendary music and sporting events go head to head to be crowned the stadium’s ‘greatest ever’. In the ultimate clash of the titans rock n’ roll royalty in the form of Queen, the Rolling Stones and Foo Fighters find themselves up against footballing legends Stuart Pearce and Geoff Hurst with wildcards Evel Knievel and Martin Offiah battling for fan votes and the coveted title.
Playing back to back gigs at Wembley in 2008, Dave Grohl overwhelmed with emotion told Foo Fighters fans on the last night that it was “the greatest day of his life” and felt as if he had 86,000 backing singers performing with him. No stranger to getting the best out of the Wembley crowd Queen and the late Freddie Mercury have also been shortlisted for their outstanding performances at Wembley in 1986 and 1985 as part of Live Aid which has arguably been remembered as the most iconic moment in music history.
Rolling Stones legend Ronnie Wood commenting on his experiences of playing Wembley said: “I remember playing in 1976 and 1990, it’s just incredible playing to the Wembley crowd. We’ve played at some great stadiums around the world including the River Plate Stadium in South America where the fans go crazy, but there’s nothing like playing in front of your home fans and also being able to pick out friends and family. Wembley Stadium is just a killer.”
On the shortlist revealed today there are some outstanding contenders for the title which will be decided online at www.wembleystadium.com/greatestevent. From Muse and Take That headlining at the home of football to the late Henry Cooper knocking down a young Cassius Clay; Michael Jackson’s breathtaking ‘Bad’ tour; and Evel Knievel’s dare devil attempt to jump the length of 13 buses, Wembley Stadium has witnessed it all and now fans must log on to register their vote if their favourite is to stand a chance of winning.

The shortlist has been brought to life online where fans can see photos and footage event as well as accessing exclusive interviews from some of the people who took centre stage. The winning event will receive a dedicated installation within the ground ensuring that it always has a place in Wembley’s rich history and fans’ hearts.
Everyone who votes and signs up online for the Wembley newsletter will be rewarded with a kids go free offer on the Wembley Stadium Tour ([1]terms and conditions apply) allowing them to see where their magical moment happened. One lucky winner will also receive a memorable day at Wembley Stadium when they enjoy exclusive access to a Club Wembley VIP box for 20 people to watch England take on World Cup finalists Holland this August.
Take That’s spectacular Circus tour is also available for fans to enjoy online and the band plan to cause a similar stir when they return this summer as a five piece. Gary Barlow said: “When you’re giving a performance on stage, Wembley Stadium offers such an amazing atmosphere; having the crowd surrounding you on the stage is incredible. We’re all looking forward to our eight shows there again this summer.”
The Wembley Greatest Event vote kicks off another massive summer of entertainment which includes the UEFA Champions League, FA Cup Final and the sold out Take That Progress Live tour.
[1] Terms and conditions apply, visit wembleystadium.com for more information


Thanks to Laura from Wembley Stadium for letting us know about this. David was a presenter at Live Earth so we all thought you would like to vote for that! :)

The Miracle: New Film Project For David

According to Screen Daily they were chatting to Paul Raphael of Starfield Productions at Cannes and he's revealed that David is to star in a new project he's working on called The Miracle.

They say:

Here in Cannes, Raphael has also confirmed further details on his Ben Hopkins’ UK/Turkish co-production A Miracle. David Tennant, who starred in popular BBC sci-fi drama Dr Who, is to star as despairing London school teacher Izzy who sets off to Turkey on an unlikely money making scheme. His job is to bring back a ‘package’, which turns out to be a coffin.
The project is due to shoot in the UK and Turkey at the end of the year for Har Films and Starfield. The two companies previously collaborated on Philippe Aractingi’s Under The Bombs.

David & Catherine In The Times

David & Catherine are featured in the Weekend supplement in this week's The Times. Much Ado About Nothing is their 'Everyone is talking about..'

Guest Blogger: United Review

Jill Coleman is our guest blogger for this week, below she reviews David's recent drama, United:

On the 6th February 1958 a tragedy took place that changed the whole of sporting history. A plane carrying Matt Busby and the Manchester United first team, along with some staff, friends and supporters, crashed as it made its third attempt to take off from a snowbound runway. Twenty-three of the forty-four people on board the plane died, including eight players. Yet, incredibly, up until now, no dramatisation has been made of these events and the journey that Manchester United had to make to recover from those devastating losses.
It is a huge story to tell, and one that requires a great deal of sensitivity, but this is what writer Chris Chibnall and director James Strong have managed to achieve, producing what is described by Peter Salmon, director of BBC North, ahead of this screening as “a compassionate and moving drama, a fitting tribute for the Busby Babes”. Chibnall has narrowed focus to tell a couple of stories, that of Assistant Manager Jimmy Murphy (played here by David Tennant) and his young protégé Bobby Charlton (Jack O’Connell). Arguably this is at the expense of other equally dramatic tales, but Chibnall and Strong are careful to explain that to try to tell the accounts of everyone involved would have been to dilute the impact.
The drama opens with a slow pan over a pristine snowy vista which quickly becomes littered with debris: discarded playing cards, broken strapping, items of clothing, with splashes of blood and patches of flame to add to the increasing dread. Then the camera arrives at the somewhat surreal spectacle of a pair of airplane seats, standing upright in the snow, with two figures still belted in place. One of these, the injured Bobby Charlton, regains consciousness and starts to realise the horror of what has just happened to him.
Flashback two years: the young Manchester United team is at the height of their success and popularity. It is a world away from the glossy, monied footballing culture that we are used to today. On a weekly wage of around £15, the players lodge together in the same boarding house, they drink and smoke and take part in late night snooker sessions, while their kit is plain and free of player names and sponsors’ logos. Mark Jones, played with swagger By Thomas Howes, puffs happily on a pipe seconds before running out onto the pitch for a first division match. There is a sense of great camaraderie and also of undying loyalty, not only to one another but also to their management team of Murphy, coach Bert Whalley and the boss himself, Matt Busby. In this world Jack O’Connell’s Bobby Charlton is somewhat of an ingénue, idolising his great friend Edwards while agonising over his inability so far to make the first team.
David Tennant as the patient mentor to the young talent is an actor known for his indifference to football, but he succeeds in portraying Murphy as a man oozing with passion for the game and the club, a man far happier on the field than in the boardroom. It is Murphy who spots the potential of the young Charlton and urges him to improve his skills until he meets the standards demanded of the great Busby and earns his rightful club position. But even on his first team debut, Bobby is still wracked with doubts. “What am I doing here?” he mutters in the tunnel ahead of his first team debut against Charlton. And still, Jimmy Murphy is behind him, encouraging, driving him forward: “You’re ready. I wish I was you right now”
Dougray Scott puts in a powerful and imposing performance as club manager Busby, nailing his voice and mannerisms, to inspire awe and respect from his players and staff alike. He stands up to the FA, determined that the club can balance both domestic and European commitments. It is his ambition for success and his determination to prove the suits wrong that leads to the chartering of a flight for that fateful return flight from Belgrade. Scott strove for honesty in the role and it shows, with a believable and subtle portrayal of a man who was a hero to so many
The crash itself is beautifully shot, the perfect demonstration of the old adage “Less Is More”. The team board on the outward journey like young pop stars and there is a sense of ambition and joy, of light-hearted banter and jokes. By the time that the plane embarks on its final take-off attempt, the smiles and jokes have evaporated to be replaced by apprehension; as the plane starts to shake itself apart we just see the great heroes as they are: a group of frightened young men, their fate hanging in the balance. And as every great director of the horror or thriller genres know, real terrors lie in the imagination. Yet it is still impossible to look at the screen at this moment.
Jack O’Connell ably shows a despairing Bobby, now torn apart by his disbelief that this could happen, that lives are destroyed, changed forever in a few seconds. “I just play football!” he screams at German medics, “And now people are dead! Of course I’m not alright!”. As he says farewell to his friend Edwards, he also tries to say farewell to the game itself, clearing his room of football trophies and memorabilia and turning his back on his mentor Murphy. But for all the words of support and encouragement from those around him it takes a simple grass roots moment to reignite the flame of his passion for the game.
For Jimmy Murphy this was a time of huge pressure. Forced into the spotlight he had to take on the role of club leader, but also be a sympathizer, a mentor, a mourner, dealing with families, press and fans in the same dignified manner. David Tennant is masterful at portraying this level of growing but repressed emotion. It is a beautifully understated performance, his eyes swimming with grief, a mere twitch of the muscles around his mouth enough to indicate the utter psychological strain that Murphy must have been suffering in the days following the crash. When the barrier finally breaks, the man who has provided so much support to others is alone, on the grey concrete stairwell of a German hospital, sorrow pouring out of him in ugly, jagged sobs. And then, Murphy plasters back on his stoical face and carries on. He is forced to play roles that he has hitherto been happy to avoid, opposing the board’s threat to disband the club with his belief that they could, in fact, should go on. Moreover, Jimmy is determined to bring Bobby back to the fold, refusing to allow him to throw away his talent and passion “Don’t be another one who died out there” he urges Charlton as both struggle to find their path back to the world they once loved.
Incredible performance piles upon incredible performance in the aftermath of the disaster. Dean Andrews gives a solid portrayal of coach Bert Whalley, completing the training team along with Murphy. Ben Peel, as Harry Gregg, the abrasive goalkeeper turned hero becomes a rock to the club and to Bobby, determined to encourage the younger man to shake off the ghosts of the past. Rising star Sam Claflin is inspiring as Duncan Edwards: an idol to many who, like so many of his collegues, had his life so cruelly and senselessly cut short. Melanie Hill is sympathetic as Bobby’s mother while club secretary Kate Ashfield provides practical and emotional support to Murphy as he struggles to piece the team back together to honour the remaining fixtures. Peter Gunn, in little more than a cameo, is incredibly moving in a tear jerking scene as he prepares to stand vigil over the coffins of the deceased players. He is the everyman, the Manchester citizen, someone who watched these players every Saturday from the terraces and now watches over them in death, stating his intention to a silent, choked Murphy.
It’s not all sorrow and darkness. There are plenty of moments of humour. Tim Healy and Bill Fellows as Bobby’s beer-swilling relatives provide welcome light relief from the grim events, while scenes of United hopefuls training as Jimmy looks to build a team from whoever is available also raise a smile
The production design of the film is worthy of mention, with exquisite attention to period detail, and the film is shot on HD cameras but using vintage lenses to give an authentically dated look. Overall colours are muted, natural greys and shades of brown, which give way to the startling red of the United kit.
Finally, the film is complemented by a hauntingly atmospheric score by Clint Mansell, subtle enough to enhance an emotional response rather than prescribing it.
Overall, it is a powerful and moving drama, and one that does not require any knowledge of or interest in football to appreciate. Yes, it is an historical account, but moreover it is a celebration of the strength of the human spirit in the face of the most appalling tragedy.

Visit Jill's blog here

The Gobetweenies: Commendation and Competition

Episode 3 of The Gobetweenies, Commendation and Competition, will air on Friday 20th May at 11:30am on BBC Radio 4.
The BBC have released the following info:
David Tennant and Sarah Alexander star as the exes determined their marital failures will not get in the way of good parenting.
Lucy gets inspired by art and creates her own Angel of the North London - but she is confused by Joe's refusal to take her to an exhibition of his own work.
Meanwhile Mimi is stuck as usual with annoying Helen who overuses the word 'achingly', hits on Joe and is oddly pretending to find Tom's lame jokes a hoot.
If it's Wednesday... it must be Holloway
Cast List:
Joe ..... David Tennant
Mimi ..... Sarah Alexander
Tom ..... Finlay Christie
Lucy ..... Phoebe Abbott
Katy ..... Ophelia Davidson
Helen ..... Tracy-Ann Oberman
Writer: Marcella Evaristi
Director: Marilyn Imrie
Producer: Gordon Kennedy
An Absolutely Production for BBC Radio 4.

Download The Gobetweenies Ep2

The second episode of The Gobetweenies aired this morning on Radio 4. Click here to download it.
Sniffing Stevie and The Gym Horse is also repeated at the following times:
Wed 18 May 2011 12:30 BBC Radio 4 Extra
Wed 18 May 2011 22:00 BBC Radio 4 Extra

Fright Night Trailer

At last the trailer for Fright Night is here! David's appearance in the trailer is a bit blink and you'll miss it but he's definitely in there! See the cap above!

More Fright Night (2011) Videos

Thanks to IGN.com

Much Ado About Nothing DVD Petition

Want to see David's stage version of Much Ado About Nothing released on DVD? Well then you need to sign this petition set up by some very enterprising fans!
Find out more and sign the petition here.

Headway Essex Update

Just a quick update to remind you of the fabulous David Tennant merchandise available from our friends at Headway Essex.

There are still a VERY limited amount of signed cards available as well as a choice of 'David Doodle' merchandise with T Shirts and pillowcases...

Click here to see the full range and remember your helping a great cause that helps survivors of brain injury and their families.

Tales Of Hans Christian Andersen

David will be one of a selection of celebrity readers retelling the Tales Of Hans Christian Andersen for a new BBC podcast.
The BBC say:
Eight of Hans Christian Andersen’s best-loved fairy stories, including The Little Mermaid, The Emperor’s New Clothes and The Ugly Duckling. Each story has been specially adapted for a young audience and is told by one of an outstanding team of readers: Anne-Marie Duff, Sir Derek Jacobi, David Tennant and Penelope Wilton. Podcasts are available on Tuesdays, beginning 3 May 2011.
If you visit their website here there are already two stories read by Anne-Marie Duff up for you to download.
David will be reading The Brave Tin Soldier and The Fir Tree, times and dates to be confirmed.

Hats 4 Headway Campaign

David has borrowed Catherine Tate's Much Ado About Nothing rehearsal hat to support the Hats 4 Headway campaign. As David says "It's not much to do to raise vital funds for Headway Essex. Please wear your hat 4 Headway, make a donation and help improve the lives of those living with brain injury."
To make a donation please visit http://www.justgiving.com/headwayessex/Donate please email any photos of yourselves taking part in Hats 4 Headway to fundraising@headwayessex.org.uk. They may be added to the Headway Essex Facebook page and used in local press.
For more information please visit http://www.headwayessex.org.uk/fundraising/events.php
Thanks to Headway Essex.

The Decoy Bride To Be Screened At Cannes

Hanway Films have announced that The Decoy Bride will be screened at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival.
Screening times:
Saturday 14th May – 12:00 – Star 1
Monday 16th May – 16:00 – Olympia 5

Much Ado Nothing Book Artwork

The artwork for the new official tie in book of Much Ado About Nothing has been sent to us by Nick Hern Books.
Don't forget that visitors to this site can get an exclusive discount on the book:
We're pleased to be able to offer 20% discount on the NHB script, with standard P&P rates (15% UK/20% Europe/25% ROW).
In order to get your discount you need to visit the Nick Hern Books website here and complete the following instructions:
Customers need to quote 'david-tennant.com' in the comments field at checkout on the website. The discount will be applied after the order has been processed (as it doesn't show on the initial purchase form.)
Books will be dispatched week commencing 16th May 2011.

The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists

David has won a role in a new 3D animated adventure film from Aardman Animations.

BBC News confirms:

Actor Hugh Grant will voice a bumbling pirate captain in a 3D animated adventure from the team behind the Oscar-winning Wallace and Gromit films.
The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists will use the same stop-motion techiques of previous Aardman films, such as Chicken Run.
Salma Hayek will co-star as his arch-rival Cutlass Liz, with David Tennant as a young Charles Darwin.
Martin Freeman, Brian Blessed and Imelda Staunton will also feature.
"I'm so grateful to the entire cast for their talent and energy," said Aardman's Peter Lord, director of the film.
"Only Hugh could anchor this story of love, loyalty, greed and nautical high-jinks."
Lord, a founding partner of British-based Aardman Animations, also co-directed Chicken Run, with Nick Park.
The film, to be distributed by Columbia Pictures, will be released on 30 March 2012.

The Fact Of Fiction: The Girl In The Fireplace

The above article is featured in the latest issue of Doctor Who Magazine (#431 1st June 2011) which is out now across the UK priced at £4.50.

The Gobetweenies: Sniffing Stevie and the Gym Horse

The second episode of The Gobetweenies, Sniffing Stevie and the Gym Horse, airs on Friday 13th May at 11:30am on BBC Radio 4.

The BBC have revealed the synopsis which you can read below:

David Tennant and Sarah Alexander star as the exes determined their marital failures will not get in the way of good parenting.
This week son Tom feels guilty about not wanting to be mates with a boy with a permanent snot bubble. The divorced pair confuse him about the morality of befriending losers. Meanwhile a visit to a tattoo parlour gives Lucy a great idea about getting some attention. Joe finds a new job and a visit to The Wellcome Institute provides Mimi with some useful information about Syphilis.
If it's Wednesday... it must be Holloway...

Cast List:
Joe ..... David Tennant

Mimi ..... Sarah Alexander

Tom ..... Finlay Christie

Lucy ..... Phoebe Abbott

Bobby ..... Stephen Critchlow

Stevie ..... Ben Baker

Ms Smart .... Morwenna Banks

Donald ..... Gordon Kennedy
Writer: Marcella Evaristi
Director: Marilyn Imrie
Producer: Gordon Kennedy

An Absolutely Production for BBC Radio 4

Download The Gobetweenies Meet The Millers

Download Episode 1 Of The Gobetweenies, Meet The Millers, here.

A candid look at contemporary family through the prism of two North London siblings Lucy and Tom as they schlep between their determinedly hands-on parents. Lucy is excited about exploring surrealism, Tom is obsessively counting sultanas and their mum Mimi (Sarah Alexander) is desperate for her third attempt at married life to get started, but the children's father Joe (David Tennant) has come to a decision that will changes their all their lives...
If it's Wednesday... it must be Holloway
Cast List:
Joe ..... David Tennant
Mimi ..... Sarah Alexander
Tom ..... Finlay Christie
Lucy ..... Phoebe Abbott
Harry ..... Stuart Milligan
Writer: Marcella Evaristi
Director: Marilyn Imrie
Producer: Gordon Kennedy
An Absolutely Production for BBC Radio 4.

This episode is repeated:
Wed 11 May 2011 12:30 BBC Radio 4 Extra
Wed 11 May 2011 22:00 BBC Radio 4 Extra

David On BBC America On Saturday

The recent episode of The Graham Norton Show featuring David Tennant and Catherine Tate as guests is to be shown on BBC America on Saturday 7th May at 10pm.

If you can't wait that long you can watch the episode online here.

Visitor Offer: Much Ado About Nothing Official Book

To coincide in with David's appearance as Benedick at the Wyndham's Theatre this summer a new official tie in issue of Much Ado About Nothing is being published by Nick Hern Books and we're pleased to tell you we've teamed up with them to offer visitors to the site an amazingly good offer with 20% off the usual £6.99 price of the book!

About The Book:

A consummate romantic comedy that dramatises the battle of the sexes with a dazzling display of Shakespeare’s wit and wordplay.
Two young lovers, Claudio and Hero, are about to be married, but the devious scheming of a resentful Prince looks set to thwart the nuptials. Meanwhile, marriage seems inconceivable for reluctant lovers Beatrice and Benedick, whose constant witty sparring threatens to keep them apart for ever.
The official tie-in edition published alongside the 2011 production at Wyndham’s Theatre, London starring David Tennant as Benedick and Catherine Tate as Beatrice.
In addition to the version of Shakespeare’s text as performed in the production, this volume also includes extensive material about how the production was conceived and developed, interviews with its cast and creative team, design sketches, an extract from the original score, and a rehearsal diary.

How To Get Your Copy with exclusive discount:

We're pleased to be able to offer 20% discount on the NHB script, with standard P&P rates (15% UK/20% Europe/25% ROW).

In order to get your discount you need to visit the Nick Hern Books website here and complete the following instructions:

Customers need to quote 'david-tennant.com' in the comments field at checkout on the website. The discount will be applied after the order has been processed (as it doesn't show on the initial purchase form.)

Books will be dispatched week commencing 16th May 2011