Explore every episode of the podcast British Culture: Albion Never Dies
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Thomas Felix Creighton continues The Alphabet of Britishness, looking especially at Queen Victoria.
The first ten minutes covers:
Thomas’ top three cinematic and TV depictions of Queen Victoria
Mrs. Brown (1997)
The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes (1970)
Doctor Who “Tooth and Claw” (modern season 2, episode 2)
...and also in brief some other 'V' topics such as:
Victoria & Albert Museum
Vauxhall (London)
Vermouth
Vesper (seems silly not to)
Victory! Although perhaps we’ll cover this far more in the next installment…
Vicar - again a great suggestion for a deep dive
Viceroy – check out my video and podcast episode looking at my top five books on the British Empire: www.youtube.com/britishculture
Vickers machine gun
The main part of this podcast comprises of two readings, one on the height of the Victorian Era, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee of 1897, and the second on The Great Exhibition of 1851.
“Pax Britannica: The Climax of the Empire” by James / Jan Morris.
“A Portrait of Britain Between the Exhibitions 1851 – 1951” by Donald Lindsay and E.S. Washington, part of the Oxford Introduction to British History series.
Jonathan Sothcott is one of the UK's most experienced and successful independent producers with a track record of success with high concept, low budget genre films. Described by GQ Magazine as "a film producer behind a whole new generation of on-screen hardmen", a 2021 Sothcott profile piece in The Telegraph noted his movies "have saved our film industry."
Over the years Sothcott has worked with a galaxy of stars including Ray Winstone, Danny Trejo, Lee Majors, Mark Hamill, Jason Statham, Michael Paré, Steven Berkoff, Richard E Grant, Charlie Cox and Sir Roger Moore.
Notable successes amongst his 40+ feature credits include ‘Vendetta’, ‘We Still Kill The Old Way’ and ‘Renegades’. He set up Shogun Films in 2020 as a genuine international counterpoint of independence and the company has won a slew of awards recognising it's trailblazing approach.
He has over 20 years of experience in the British film industry, and we discuss what makes a movie ‘British'?. We also discuss some of the best films of the 1980s, and the established stars at the time. We also discuss his forthcoming movie, ‘Knightfall’, currently in post-production:
“Charles Knight, a paranoid former spy catcher, must work with his estranged daughter to foil an international terrorist plot, while surviving a terrifying home invasion in this explosive espionage thriller”.
Before making his name in feature films, Sothcott produced documentaries and moderated DVD commentaries for numerous cult films, including The Wild Geese.
Our topics include:
Roger Moore
Roger Moore’s son, Geoffrey Moore
Ian Ogilvy - an English actor, playwright and novelist best known as the star of the television series Return of the Saint (1978–79), in which he assumed the role of Simon Templar from Roger Moore (1962-69)
The Fourth Protocol (1987) starring Pierce Brosnan and Micheal Caine, based on the 1984 book by British novelist Frederick Forsyth
The debt that modern action movies owe to traditional 007 films
The Wild Geese (1978) with Roger Moore, John Glen (second unit director) and Ewan Lloyd (producer)
Joan Armatrading wrote and recorded the theme song
Ingrid Pitt, Polish-British actress and writer, most famous for her role in ‘Where Eagles Dare’ but also appeared in The Wild Geese II
The Sea Wolves (1980), Gregory Peck, Roger Moore and David Niven
Ewan Lloyd – BFI: “Lloyd stood alone within the depressed British film industry of the late 1970s and early 1980s as a producer with the self-belief, charisma and bluff to mount large-scale independent action-adventure films, such as The Wild Geese (1978) and Who Dares Wins (1982)".
Lewis Collins, star of the TV movie, ‘Who Dares Wins’ (1982), also known as The Final Option, the star was the tabloid’s favourite for ‘next James Bond’ for some years due to his action star credentials
David Wickes, TV producer best known for his work on ‘The Sweeny’ ‘The Professionals’, and ‘CI5: The New Professionals’
Jonathan recommends the TV show, ‘Roger Moore: A Matter of Class’, which is available to watch on Youtube.
Finally, we discuss he state of the British film industry, and the way ahead.
Thomas Felix Creighton talks about the British perspective on 4th July – American Independence Day. This episode is perfect to listen to as you drive to a family barbeque on the day, giving you fun facts, and a unique perspective you can share!
Why is there a triumphal arch close to where this episode was recorded in England, celebrating the American victory?
Was 1776 the start of a new identity?
What inspired the US constitution?
Would slavery have ended sooner for the USA if the colonies had stayed with Britain?
All these questions are answered, with the following books and films recommended (listen in order of mention in the episode):
Books:
Unruly: The Ridiculous History of England's Kings and Queens, by David Mitchell
A Great and Terrible King: Edward I and the Forging of Britain by Marc Morris
Cromwell, by Antonia Fraiser
Origins of the American Revolution (2nd ed.) by John Chester Miller
Movies:
1973’s Robin Hood (Disney)
1968’s The Lion in Winter (with Timothy Dalton as Phillip II of France)
2010’s Robin Hood (the Russell Crowe one)
1970’s Cromwell
Released on the first of July, to give you time to listen in advance of the celebratory day, when many will be busy with family, or in case you have a really long drive to get to that barbeque!
Happy New Year! Yes! The 'Alphabet of Britishness' is back!!
S is for... Sport! I talk about the British codification of football (or 'soccer'), and how this was affected by the development of the railways, recommending Michael Portillo's 'Great British Railway Journeys'. I also talk about cricket, the magnificent beard of W.G. Grace, and 363 day Premiership of former cricketer Alec Douglas-Home. I spend the longest time looking into the origins of snooker in British India.
[Minute 12]
S is for... Scotland I look at Roman Scotland, which actually surprised me because like many I tend to think of life beyond The Wall(s) as non-Roman. I amuse myself with the historical inaccuracies of Braveheart. I also can't resist talking about the non-historicity of 'clan tartans' which is always a fun topic.
My Recommended Rabbit Hole: Scots of the British Empire
[Minute 23]
S is for... SAS (Special Air Service) and SBS (Special Boat Service)
Here, I go through an obituary of Paddy Ashdown, a well-known liberal politician in the UK who had a special forces and diplomatic background. I felt his colourful early career would be of particular interest to international listeners. I take much of my information from The Guardian, which would tend to be critical of such exploits.
***
Since the Alphabet of Britishness is now a monthly project, feel free to message me with more suggestions for 'S'. There certainly is one more coming up. Next week, Episode 104 will be "S" is for... "The Saint" with a very special guest. Stay tuned for that, coming up on January 10th, 2023.
Message me anytime on Instagram, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
After over 100 episodes looking at the positive definition of 'Britishness', it's time to ask what are the limits to 'Britishness'? A negative definition of 'Britishness' attempts to define it by what it is not. Boundaries.
To this end, I use the BFI (British Film Institute) rubric to test the 'Britishness' levels of the original 1977 Star Wars movie (A New Hope). The rubric is as follows:
Section A – cultural content A1: Film set in the UK or a European Economic Area (EEA) – Up to 4 points A2: Lead characters British or EEA citizens or residents – Up to 4 points A3: Film based on British or EEA subject matter or underlying material – 4 points A4: Original dialogue recorded mainly in English or UK indigenous language or EEA language – Up to 6 points
Section B – cultural contribution
The film demonstrates British creativity, British heritage and/or diversity – Up to 4 points
Section C – cultural hubs
C1: (a) At least 50% of the principal photography or SFX takes place in the UK – 2 points (b) At least 50% of the VFX takes place in the UK – 2 points (c) An extra 2 points can be awarded if at least 80% of principal photography or VFX or SFX takes place in the UK – 2 points C2: Music Recording/Audio Post Production/Picture Post Production – 1 point
Section D – cultural practitioners
D1: Director – 1 point D2: Scriptwriter – 1 point D3: Producer – 1 point D4: Composer – 1 point D5: Lead actors – 1 point D6: Majority of cast – 1 point D7: Key staff (lead cinematographer, lead production designer, lead costume designer, lead editor, lead sound designer, lead visual effects supervisor, lead hair and makeup supervisor) – 1 point D8: Majority of crew – 1 point
Total available points: 35 (I mis-speak at the start of the episode, correcting myself later)
Number of points needed to pass the Britishness test: 18 points
Something that really is new is my newsletter. Several subscribers have their postcards and other little 'thank you's in the post, just randomly drawn from the list!
Merry Christmas! I hope you're having a wonderful day. Just a quick chat, as I know some people might have 3 minutes to spare as they dash in a car somewhere, or find some time to themselves, to wish you all a very merry Christmas.
(1) T is for… Thomas I talk about my experience in China, with Chinese social media and blogs, which led me ultimately to creating my @FlemingNeverDies Instagram account, and this podcast, which I chose *not* to give the same name.
(2) What have I learned?
Social media works best when it is more 'social' than 'media'.
Where you stand depends on where you sit; as I gained perspectives from around the world, and as I move betwen China, the USA, and the UK itself.
Where you stand depends on *when* you sit; the lag between perception and reality, which can be increased through geographic distance.
(3) 1-100 in ten minutes Okay, maybe not a whole ten minutes here, but I talk about how my podcast evolved from its initial form - influenced by Chinese social media - to the regular podcast you now get every week.
(4) Where next? Learning a lesson from Elliot Carver (or was it James Bond?), I will remember the first rule of mass media and give the people what they want:
I will bring back 'The Alphabet of Britishness'.
I will finally review Bond content (I've resisted this one a long time)
I will create more Youtube videos, both uploading the 'deep dives' there and 5 minute video-only content.
Plenty to look forward to, and plenty of room for your suggestions.
Message me anytime on Instagram, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
Something that really is new is my newsletter. Several subscribers have their postcards and other little 'thank you's in the post, just randomly drawn from the list!
British Christmas traditions feel universal and timeless to us Brits... yet as my interviewee Caine explains, Christmas has changed a great deal since the time of the first Christians in Britain, and indeed, since the first Christians!
This is a special two-hour truly deep dive into what makes Christmas special, and what aspects are specially British. There are little breaks, so feel free to listen to this in installments. That's how we intended it to be listened to.
(But if you want to listen to it all in one go, all power to you!)
Message me anytime on Instagram, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
Something that really is new is my newsletter. Several subscribers have their postcards and other little 'thank you's in the post, just randomly drawn from the list!
The number one movie on Netflix (UK) right now is the latest adaptation of D.H. Lawrence's "Lady Chatterley's Lover". Joining me to talk about this remarkable novel is British author Roland Hulme, described in his Amazon biography as "a digital Don Draper with a Hemingway complex - one of the world's foremost experts on social media and interactive marketing". Roland was born in the UK, but is currently living and working across the Atlantic in the USA. You can find him on Instagram and Youtube.
I last had him on the podcast last October, so we are overdue another appearance!
Roland is the author of the Knuckleheads Motorcylcle Club books, 'High Point', and also the Edventure Eddie series. He got his start writing romantic fiction, and here gives me his unique take on Lady Chatterley's Lover, by D. H. Lawrence, which was published in a limited English-language edition in Florence (1928) and in Paris (1929). and then in England in an expurgated edition in 1932. The full text was published only in 1959 in New York City and in 1960 in London, when it was the subject of a landmark obscenity trial that turned largely on the justification of the use in the book of until-then taboo sexual terms.
This episode is, as always, a clean-language podcast. I hope you enjoy our discussion.
Message me anytime on Instagram, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
Something that really is new is my newsletter. Several subscribers have their postcards and other little 'thank you's in the post, just randomly drawn from the list!
Edith Nesbit: British children’s author, novelist, and poet. Among many other stories, she wrote, '5 Children and It' which I talk about here.
The Dreyfus Affair: a sandal that captured the world's attention (and was obliquely references in 'The Railway Children').
The TV Show: starring Jenny Agutter in BBC black and white glory.
The Film (1970): there are, of course, many movie adaptations, but this one is the classic, and no film review of any of the others fails to mention that!
The Railway itself: the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway (yes, pronounced 'Keith-ley'), a fantastic place to visit in West Yorkshire, and home to the films.
I hope you enjoy this - just over thirty minute - episode... and the poems. Couldn't resist.
Oh, and I also announce the competition winner. Stay subscribed so you don't miss out!
Message me anytime on Instagram, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
Something that really is new is my newsletter. Several subscribers have their postcards and other little 'thank you's in the post, just randomly drawn from the list!
That's right! If you can guess the topic of my forthcoming episode, on a certain Edwardian children's story, then you can win an 'A is for... Albion' mug! Just for fun, and for the three other reasons I give, along with many, many clues in the episode.
Thanks to Frank on Instagram (@HansGruberr) for suggesting this topic. In fact, ‘007’s Drinks’ was the request, but since I have covered some of these on my Youtube channel already (www.youtube.com/britishculture), I thought I’d broaden it out to include food from the original James Bond novels by as well.
The key reference books I use in this episode are:
"For Your Eyes Only: Ian Fleming + James Bond" by Ben Macintyre
"License to Cook" by Edward Biddulph
"The Complete Guide to the Drinks of James Bond" by David Leigh
…and of course, I quote three Ian Fleming novels with the most vivid and memorable (to me) food descriptions, "Casino Royale" (1953), "From Russia With Love" (1957) and "Goldfinger" (1959).
I also mention (and recommend) the podcast and Youtube channels 'From Tailors with Love' and 'Quantum of History'.
If you’ve lived under two British monarchs and three Prime Ministers, you may only be a few months old. Recent events have been (almost) unprecedented, as since so much of the UK’s image abroad can depend on our political representation, I touch on the topic of politics once again.
This episode in in three parts: first I give context to recent events, especially the short tenure of Liz Truss; then in the longest part I address the many questions (below) I was asked on Instagram about our political events; and finally, I give a very brief bio of our new Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak.
I also suggest, thanks to an article in Private Eye magazine, that recent events are not *totally* unprecedented. If you live outside the UK, that fortnightly publication is my recommended rabbit hole. If you live inside the UK, then I’d suggest Prime Minister Spencer Perceval as a good rabbit hole.
Questions from Instagram: 20th October, carrying on throughout the week
What now? Elections? Are you surprised?
How close are we to snap elections?
Who’s your money on for the new Conservative leader? And will there be a general election?
In the UK can you call a general election at any time?
Bring back Boris?
Will the Health Secretary also quit? She needs to.
Will there be new surprises? Can Boris return? How is the public’s reaction? Yours?
Risk of the Tory coalition collapsing? Still relying on the DUP for support?
Who is Penny Mordaunt?
Why did Liz Truss want to abolish the monarchy but claim she is fit for her past majesty’s government?
How is this gonna end? Because I can’t imagine the PM from the conservatives will survive?
Do you want the next PM to keep Hunt as Chancellor?
Questions from Instagram: 24th October onwards, after Rishi Sunak became de facto PM
His wife with the tax issue, how is that now?
And will it be a problem that he is so rich? Seen by the general public?
What are the betting odds for how long he will last?
If he has to resign, beyond Mourdent and (ugh) Boris, is anyone in the running with a chance?
Your hopes and thoughts on him
Will he get into bed with Boris?
He does have great style. Tailor made suits I believe?
Larry the Cat is sticking around, right?
and finally: What’s your next sartorial Bond purchase? What’s on your wish list?
I do my best with all these questions, and hope I will not have cause to do another podcast on politics for a good long while!
Message me anytime on Instagram, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
Something that really is new is my newsletter. Several subscribers have their postcards and other little 'thank you's in the post, just randomly drawn from the list!
We talk about class, age, gender, as factors in British ‘drinking culture’, as well as the UK’s ever changing international outlook, and the effect of marketing, in shaping our trends in drinking. We even talk about the rise of zero alcohol drinks in Britain.
So, raise a glass to the Great British tradition of booze, and the twelve drinks that made it what it is today… Cheers!
The history of Britain, perhaps more so than any other country, is defined by its drinking culture. Built on a foundation of pubs, clubs and watering holes, the UK has remained in the global top five for alcoholic intake per capita since 1700. It doesn’t matter how it comes – nip, schooner, pint or yard – we will always gladly have another.
But of such a vast and varied drinks menu, which are Britain’s favourites? Which have stood the test of time? And what do they say about our wider culture?
Steven Parissien’s 'Another Round?' uncorks contemporary Britain’s relationship with booze in twelve very different drinks. From the 1950’s classic Babysham, to the house party favourite WKD, these flagship brands reflected and redefined British culture and politics.
You can pre-order on Amazon (and all good sellers), and it will be available in Hardcover (£14.99), Paperback (£9.99), and eFormats (£9.99) on the day of release. Thomas has read an advance copy of this book, and strongly recommends it.
Dr Steven Parissien is Director of Compton Verney museum and gallery in Warwickshire, England, and Visiting Fellow at Kellogg College, University of Oxford, and the University of Warwick. Born in London and raised in Buckinghamshire, Steven obtained both his undergraduate and doctoral degrees from Oxford.
Steven has written extensively on architectural and cultural history. His nine books to date include Adam Style (Phaidon, 1992; Apollo magazine's Book of the Year for 1992 and The American Institute of Architects' Book of the Year Choice for 1993), George IV: The Grand Entertainment (John Murray, 2001); Interiors: The Home Since 1700 (Laurence King, 2008); and, most recently, The Life of the Automobile (Atlantic, 2013). He lives in Oxford, England, and has a daughter, Julia.
By request of many, many listeners, I am covering 'Lawrence of Arabia' (1962) in the final episode in my trilogy covering the films of British Imperial history. I previously covered the events that inspired the films Zulu (1964) and The Man Who Would Be King (1975), each with Michael Caine. This time, it's the David Lean classic starring Peter O'Toole.
If, like 28% of respondents to my poll on Instagram, you haven't seen the film, or if, like myself and many people who messaged me, you haven't seen it for a long time, have no fear. This is a NO SPOILERS episode. Although I do talk about his death, this is shown in the first five minutes of the (more than) 3 hour epic movie. Mostly, I focus on the true life story of Thomas Edward Lawrence.
At the outset, I explain why I chose this topic out of all the suggestions. Then, I delve into the many varied perspectives on him from the members of the Facebook group, 'The Gentlemen's Society for the Appreciation of the British Empire'. I received over 150 comments, so I had to be very selective here. Finally, I give a brief bio, and read the introduction to his book:
'The Seven Pillars of Wisdom' by T.E. Lawrence
My recommended rabbit hole is Gertrude Bell.
I hope you enjoy this one!
Message me anytime on Instagram, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
Something that really is new is my newsletter. Several subscribers have their postcards and other little 'thank you's in the post, just randomly drawn from the list!
This is a REISSUE of my Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night) special episode from last year. My style has changed a little since then, and I considered simply re-recording this, but there is honestly so much information packed in here, I truly think I cannot do better. Whether it is new to you (many people have discovered my podcast in the last year), or whether it's been a year since you heard it, I very much hope you enjoy it.
Remember, remember, The Fifth of November Gunpowder treason and plot I see no reason why gunpowder treason Should ever be forgot Guy Fawkes, Guy Fawkes, 'twas his intent To blow up the King and the Parliament Three score barrels of powder below Poor old England to overthrow By God's providence he was catch'd With a dark lantern and burning match Holler boys, holler boys, let the bells ring
Message me anytime on Instagram, or e-mail: AlbionNeverDies@gmail.com
Something that really is new is my newsletter. Several subscribers have their postcards and other little 'thank you's in the post, just randomly drawn from the list!
I take a NO SPOILERS look at the 1975 film ‘The Man Who Would Be King’, and the original 1888 short story by Rudyard Kipling.
I also recommend the books:
‘The Great Game’ by Peter Hopkirk'
‘Inside the Kingdom’ by Robert Lacey
If you are one of the 47% of my Instagram friends who hasn’t seen the film ‘The Man Who Would Be King’, check it out! Do let me know what you think of it!
You can e-mail me: AlbionNeverDies@Gmail.com You can find me on Instagram: @FlemingNeverDies
Did you know that Halloween has its roots in the British Isles, especially from an ancient festival called 'Samhain'?
Welcome back to our special returning guest, Caine, who gives us all the details. He previously gave us: the 'Deep Dive Into Tea'; the 'Deep Dive Into British Men's Wardrobes'; the 'A Deep Dive Into Ink: British Tattoo Culture'; the 'Deep Dive Into Christmas'; a 'Shallow Dive' into St. George's Day; and many more!
Check out his video on a similarly themed topic to Halloween, The Hungry Ghost Festival, celebrated in China.
Thank you very much to the chaps in the Facebook Group, 'The Gentlemen's Society for the Appreciation of the British Empire' who provided so many great insights into the REAL Battle of Rorke's Drift, portrayed in the 1964 movie. There were over 300 comments, and I draw from as many as I am able to, as well as the following books:
'Rorke's Drift' by Adrian Greaves
'The Rise and Fall of the British Empire' by Lawrence James
'Pax Britannica' by James/Jan Morris
and also a special shout-out to two authors who reached out to me:
Neil Thornton (Rorke's Drift: A New Perspective)
Kevin Brazier (Victoria Crosses of the Zulu and Boer Wars)
Both informed this podcast.
I asked on my Instagram (@FlemingNeverDies) whether you've seen the movie 'Zulu' and 37% of people said 'no'. So, I don't delve too deep into the movie, you can listen to this then watch the film happily for the first time, or vice versa. Either way, I hope you enjoy it as much as I, and many others, do.
My ‘Recommended Rabbit Hole’: Frank Bourne (the youngest Colour Sergeant at the time of the Battle of Rorke's Drift). Just start with Google, see where it takes you, and let me know if you found it as fascinating as I do.
You can e-mail me: AlbionNeverDies@Gmail.com You can find me on Instagram: @FlemingNeverDies
Every year, on October 28th, the Royal Navy celebrates Admiral Nelson’s most famous victory. But, what if Nelson had lost? And how can we celebrate this night?
I draw upon three books:
‘The Rise and Fall of the British Empire’ by Lawrence James
‘Empire of the Seas: How the Navy Forged the Modern World’ by Brian Lavery
‘HMS Victory’ by Peter Goodwin
I also recommend the movie ‘Master and Commander’ (2003), the TV show Hornblower (1998-2003), and the classic clip (on Youtube) of John Noakes cleaning Nelson’s Column for the children’s TV show ‘Blue Peter’.
My ‘Recommended Rabbit Hole’: Lord Cochrane. Just start with Google, see where it takes you, and let me know if you found it as fascinating as I do.
You can e-mail me: AlbionNeverDies@Gmail.com You can find me on Instagram: @FlemingNeverDies
What's coming up on the podcast? A trilogy of British Empire classics, the first two as part of our 'season of Michael Caine'!
Next week (24th October, 2022): 'Zulu' (1964) starring Michael Caine, and based on the Battle of Rorke's Drift (1879).
The next week (31st October, 2022): 'The Man Who Would Be King' (1975) starring Sean Connery and Michael Caine, based on the short story by Rudyard Kipling (first published 1888).
The third week of this apparent trilogy (7th November, 2022), YOU DECIDE! Contact me with your suggestions, and I'll cover whatever the people demand!
You can e-mail me: AlbionNeverDies@Gmail.com You can find me on Instagram: @FlemingNeverDies
Last week, I appeared on the podcast 'From Tailors With Love', talking about the 1987 movie 'The Fourth Protocol'. That film was adapted by Frederick Forsyth from his own novel after Michael Caine read it and loved it.
I also appeared on 'The Bond Experience' on Youtube, talking about Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III, and of course James Bond 007. Thank you to the many, many people who have engaged me in conversation there, and what a wonderful host 'The Bond Experience' proved to be!
In this episode, I talk about Forsyth's career as a thriller writer, and suggest that he could be viewed as an 'Heir of Fleming'. I don't talk about all his books, just the ones that stand out to me, and I read a section from The Fourth Protocol.
It is the guiding question of this whole podcast! After a tumultuous month, it's time to get back to basics. I asked a Facebook group, 'What is Britishness?' and their answers were outstanding. Thank you to everyone who took part in the discussion and made this episode possible.
Thomas Felix Creighton interviews Christopher Morales, also known as @ThatOneBondGuy on Instagram and Youtube, to get a Californian's perspective on 1985's James Bond film A View to a Kill.
This final Roger Moore 007 film takes place in San Francisco, for the final hour, close to where Chris lives. Both he and Thomas have enjoyed exploring the locations, so here they happily share their love of the film.
Some light spoilers for the film, but if you're listening to them enthuse over a 40 year old film, hopefully you've seen it already! This film was discussed in Episode 189, an interview with the film's director, John Glen.
Queen Elizabeth II, the UK's longest-serving monarch, has died at Balmoral aged 96, after reigning for 70 years. With her passing, we mark the accession of Charles, formally Prince of Wales, as King Charles III. Prince William is the new Prince of Wales.
The initial announcement was made from Balmoral, with a statement from Prime Minister Liz Truss following from Number 10 Downing Street. King Charles was subsequently proclaimed King from St. James' Palace, and the proclamation of accession formally distributed throughout the kingdoms, counties, and cities.
This episode is primarily a recording of the official proclamation in Bradford City Centre, in West Yorkshire with a special inter-faith ceremony afterwards. After all, the King of England is also the head of the Church of England, the Defender of the Faith.
Liz Truss has just been elected leader of the Conservative Party in the UK. As the leader of the party with the largest number of Members of Parliament, it is expected that The Queen will invite her to become Britain's third Prime Minister...
...But who is she?
I draw largely upon the (online) Encyclopedia Britannica article on her, giving my own observations and answering four questions from listeners about her. You can continue to contact me with questions, expect answers in upcoming episodes.
What is a Bank holiday? Why do we have Bank Holidays? What do people do on Bank Holidays?
Most importantly, what am *I* doing on this August Bank Holiday. Listen to this little episode and all will be revealed. I also have a question for all listeners; have you ever tried to teach a dog to read? If so, let me know your findings. The reason for this question is, of course, in the podcast, and it makes perfect sense. Enjoy your every day.
In Ian Fleming's 1957 novel, James Bond 007 visits Istanbul. The city is wonderfully described, from a British perspective. Having studied Turkish for over 20 years, I go through Fleming's chapters on Turkey, and give my own perspective.
This is Part 3 of a series initially focusing on Fleming. You can listen to these in any order, having read the books or not. I give real-world insights on places visited by the world's most celebrated fictitious spy.
After this, you can decide how far I go down the Bond rabbit hole! Contact me using any of the following accounts:
In Ian Fleming's 1957 novel, James Bond 007 visits Istanbul. The city is wonderfully described, from a British perspective. Having studied Turkish for over 20 years, I go through Fleming's chapters on Turkey, and give my own perspective.
This is Part 2 of a series initially focusing on Fleming. You can listen to these in any order, having read the books or not. I give real-world insights on places visited by the world's most celebrated fictitious spy.
After this, you can decide how far I go down the Bond rabbit hole! Contact me using any of the following accounts:
In Ian Fleming's 1957 novel, James Bond 007 visits Istanbul. The city is wonderfully described. Having studied Turkish for over 20 years, I go through Fleming's chapters on Turkey, and give my own perspective.
This is Part I(i) of a series that will initially focus on Fleming. After that, how far I go, you can decide! You can contact me using any of the following accounts:
Thank you to everyone who messaged me about my last episode. This week, I'm answering the top ten questions (decided by me) that I was asked this week about UK politics.
They are (in order of me receiving them):
1) How is Brexit going? Did it work? 2) Is there anything like a libertarian party there? 3) How could politics be made more interesting, especially for young people? 4) Does the monarch have a role in politics? 5) Is it possible to draw parallels to US politics? 6) Do you believe the reports of the coup plots against Harold Wilson? 7) Who do you prefer out of Sunak and Truss as the UK’s next Prime Minister 8) Is Thatcher the only PM to appear in a Bond film? 9) Who is your favourite pre-1940 PM? 10) Have you heard about Sunak’s wife’s businesses?
Thank you also to those who gave me 5-star reviews on iTunes, and who shared on their social media about my podcast. Thank you for helping new people find this content!
The Prime Minister is the most visible representation of the UK, after the Queen. Travelling around the world, I have often been asked my views on Thatcher, Blair, and the most recent incumbent of Number 10 Downing Street, Boris Johnson (BoJo).
Since Boris Jonson announced his resignation on the 7th July, the Conservative Party has been focused on selecting its next Parliamentary leader. As this is the largest political party in the House of Commons, whoever wins will certainly be the next Prime Minister.
In this episode, I give some background to events, both surrounding BoJo, and the office of Prime Minister itself. I outline the selection process and how it works. I also give a brief overview of the main contenders at time of recording.
If you enjoy this episode, let me know, and I shall give further updates.
Currently, no candidate has personally contacted me.
Thomas Felix Creighton talks about Britishness in the 1950s, drawing on both academic sources, and family diaries, letters, and recollections. This episode covers family experiences of the Second World War, births in the baby boom, and life in Britain and the Empire in the new Elizabethan Age.
Enjoy this special bonus episode, just a couple of minutes long. It was originally made for my Chinese social media account several years ago, as part of a campaign to promote a large James Bond themed event. Mixing Martinis and Vespers was a highlight of the event, as was our Goldfinger singalong (aided by the libations).
On Youtube, my "007's Drinks" videos have proven popular; perhaps especially as I review both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks enjoyed by our favourite fictitious agent. You can find these videos, and many more, at: https://www.youtube.com/britishculture
I was prompted to upload this bonus content due to two listeners. The first messaged me on Instagram saying he enjoyed this week's episode, but would love it to be longer. The other e-mailed me, asking for advice on how to run an Ian Fleming themed event, reminding me of this wonderful event in China.
You can e-mail me anytime at: albionneverdies@gmail.com You can also find me on Instagram: @flemingneverdies You can find my Turkish account here: @JamesBond_Turkiye
In this podcast episode, I delve into the importance of Queen Mary's Rose Garden in Regent's Park, London to the James Bond canon, which I recorded on location. The garden features in the second chapter of Ian Fleming's You Only Live Twice (1964). I also reflect on Fleming's other 1964 publication, Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang, and the film adaptations of both books by Roald Dahl.
What could be more English than an Englishman abroad? Having spent the majority of my adult life outside the UK, and much of my time in the UK supporting international students, I'm giving my insights into the phenomenon of 'Culture Shock'.
The five stage are: (1) Honeymoon (2) Denial (3) Anger (4) Escape (5) Maturity
I give an outline of each stage, with real-life examples, and give practical solutions based on my own experience and observation of others. In short; build your network, prepare for 'home comfort' days, and make little outings when you can.
There were no strange stories about travelling on the busses here in the UK for the first few months, then suddenly, three mad stories all come along at once!
I hope you enjoy this episode, recorded once again as I was out and about on a country walk. There's a bit of wind at the beginning, but I realized when I was recording and found a better spot. So, all very clear after the 5 minute mark. Enjoy the sounds of the birds and the lambs.
I also sang with the choir at Bradford Cathedral this Sunday, as part of the special evensong to celebrate 30 years of the girls' choir.
I've been back home for 3 months now... how is it wearing on me?
Honestly, watching 'The Spy Who Loved Me' (1977) in the cinema was pretty cool, and attending the Institution, Induction and Installation of the new Dean of Bradford Cathedral was wonderful.
I talk about these two events, my house-hunting, and reflect on the last 3 months.
Britain has just celebrated Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee with a four-day national holiday. Rather than do a Deep Dive into the life and times of the Queen, which is done elsewhere and done well, I recorded my own audio diary as I joined celebrations in North and then West Yorkshire.
Thank you very much to the City of Bradford Brass Band with Jonny Bates Musical Director, for allowing me to play some of their music here. You can find them at: http://www.bradfordbrass.co.uk
Just a quick slice of life from me this week. I haven't been travelling, except to go to Ilkley to take a friend to Bettys Tea Room (no apostrophe) . I talk about that, look forward to the Platinum Jubilee coming up, and tell a tie story too. A fuller episode coming next week.
After the last episode went out, I was flooded with responses to my question, "What's the most interesting UK/US differences?" - Thank you to everyone who contacted me!
I also talk about toilet twinning, the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, and Howarth's 1940s weekend. With plenty to talk about, I still find time to digress to talk about Michael Portillo's career, with the excuse that someone did message me about his TV shows.
I end with some personal updates; job going well, flat hunting continuing. Sadly, I do have news regarding my friend's 17 year old cat, Alfred Chocolate Yumyum. He was such a star in previous episodes, and many people messaged me about him, so he has the last words in this episode.
Contact me anytime, either about UK/US differences, or the Alphabet of Britishness, which will return. Hopefully, it will return swifter than James Bond between films these days!
I've largely avoided comparisons between UK and US culture until now, despite it being a terribly popular topic online. It's really a whole sub-genre, and there are some people putting out great content on this topic, but it was a video by David Zarinksky - better known as 'The Bond Experience' - that has prompted me to make this episode. His video, with Calvin Dyson, is called "USA vs UK Bond Fans | The Differences and the Similarities", and I make a fair few references to it, so do check out his Youtube channel.
I talk about that for about 30 minutes, then give my report on life in the UK for the remaining 10, just after the sounds of the countryside. If you haven't heard of 'The Knitted Bible' exhibition, do check out their Facebook page.
Oh, and why not check out my friend Caine's video on Christianity in Imperial China? You've heard him talk about British culture in many, many Deep Dives for this podcast. On his Youtube channel 'Videos by Caine', he covers this really cool topic.
Thomas Felix Creighton interviews John Glen, who directed five James Bond 007 films, three with Sir Roger Moore KBE in the lead and two with Timothy Dalton:
For Your Eyes Only (1981)
Octopussy (1983)
A View to a Kill (1985)
The Living Daylights (1987)
License to Kill (1989)
He also directed Christopher Columbus: The Discovery (1992), and worked on The Italian Job (1969), The Admirable Crichton (1957), and was responsible for the iconic parachute jump at the start of The Spy Who Loved Me (1977).
We talk about all of the above films, as well as discussing what makes James Bond so British, what is the formula for a great 007 film, John Glen's rise through the film industry, and his experiences as a Brit abroad.
We also talk about two of the iconic women of the films, Maud Adams and Grace Jones, as well as which actor was author Ian Fleming's first choice to play the character of Bond, James Bond.
In this episode, I ask three fellas in a pub in London, "What's the most British thing you've seen today?" - but these aren't just any random fellas: I'm talking to Pete Brooker of "From Tailors With Love", Daniel Gaster (who writes for the 'tailors' blog), and Chris, better known as @BritishBondAddict . You can find them all on Instagram, and see a variety of photos we took at a recent meet up.
After that, and giving my tale of train journeys between Yorkshire and the capital, I talk about my new job, and give an update on the Alphabet of Britishness.
That job interview I mentioned in "Back in Britain #2"? I got the job!! Telling them it was my birthday was clearly a good idea during the interview! I'm really looking forward to it.
Pontefract, and eating Pontefract Cakes in Pontefract castle. Check out my Youtube channel for two videos, one on the history and one on the cakes!
Bradford to see the Soapbox races, video coming to my Youtube at some point (I expect to be busy with the new job), but subscribe and you won't miss it!
Most importantly, my friend's cat makes an appearance, Alfred Chocolate Yumyum. I'll start owing him royalties soon, even though he'd probably spend it all on fish.