The Empire Film Podcast #343 - The League Of Gentlemen, Peter Jackson & Phillipa Boyens
Dec 14, 2018
Peter Jackson, legendary filmmaker behind The Lord of the Rings, and Philippa Boyens, his longtime co-writer, chat about adapting Mortal Engines and building cinematic worlds. Reece Shearsmith, comedian and Inside No. 9 co-creator, and Mark Gatiss, actor-writer from The League of Gentlemen and Sherlock, talk touring, live DVD antics and keeping classic characters fresh. Short, funny conversations and behind-the-scenes tales.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Bubble Angel And The Joy Of Reuniting
- Jeremy Dyson described leaving the performing trio to go feral on tour, inventing the 'Bubble Angel' that haunted them during long runs.
- The group values simple extras—meals together and taking family to shows—as vital to their reunion's warmth.
Unexpected Ticket Surge And Humbling Fan Response
- Ticket demand surprised the troupe: they announced shows tentatively, and tickets sold out immediately when released.
- The initial uncertainty turned to humbling gratitude as older fans warmly embraced their return.
Use Pre-Recorded Gags To Solve Live Logistics
- When staging complex live comedy, integrate pre-recorded elements and sequels sparingly to provide narrative callbacks and technical breathing room.
- The League wrote group material (the chinnery) together to rework problematic bits into achievable stage moments.