Ju Upton

I just got back from a 'preview screening' (I use the term loosely, as the film's been languishing for 12 months already) of Puffball. It was introduced by Nic Roeg, Fay Weldon (who wrote the original novel) and Dan Weldon (who produced).

I must say I found the opening Q&A session with Roeg et al very entertaining. Roeg's an affable sort, Fay is like a favourite dotty aunt and Dan Weldon was an agreeable chap. It was a pity the film didn't match up. It reminded me in parts of Robin Hardy's The Fantasist, also shot in Ireland. I think whatever madness took over Hardy's brain when he made that must have got hold of Roeg too.

I suppose that's a bit unfair. Puffball isn't quite as bad as The Fantasist, but then, what film is? Anyway, I don't want to harp on about the negatives - I know this is an upbeat forum - so I'll just say that I think if I'd waited to catch Puffball on late night TV in 20 years' time (and not a 'respectful' showing, just as a midnight-hour programmer on BBC1), and it had been directed by someone like Alan Gibson or Seth Holt or Peter Medak, then I think I would have quite liked it.

I kind of felt how I felt when I first watched Eyes Wide Shut. But now, nearly ten years on, I'm starting to warm to Eyes Wide Shut - only a bit, mind - but that's progress at least.

cally

What ever happened to Nic Roeg anyhow? He was among the greatest of talents until "Eureka'.