Hi Des,

Well I have to admit that I disagree with you about a lot of your
critique with the film. But thats what makes great conversation and shared pints. You made one statement that fascinates me tho'.

"I'm in serious doubt whether this story "needed" to be made into a film at all"

I can't think of a single piece of lit'ratoor that needs to be anything but the book. Movies are made to be an entertainment and nothing more. Certainly some of it becomes art but by and large its an exchange of two hours in the dark hopefully having a good time and trading cash for the experience.

The Cary Grant, Victor McLaglen, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Sam Jaffe film of "Gunga Din" is great film making, close to art in of it self but it ain't Kiplings poem. Not even close. But still great film making and entertainment.

Be sure and watch the extended version of The Return of the King when it comes out and see if it clears up some sticking points.

Don