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The Unseen Robin Hood: Director John Irvin on His Anti-Thatcher Film Thirty-five years ago, two films about the legend of Robin Hood – stealer from the rich, giver to the poor – met and duelled in cinemas; we all know who won, Kevin Costner’s big-budget blockbuster, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. But what about the other one? It was titled simply Robin Hood, directed by John Irvin and starring Patrick Bergin in the title role alongside a pre-Pulp Fiction Uma Thurman as Maid Marian. The Aim Was to Give Kevin Costner's Version a Good Kicking “It was very much a stand-alone film with the aim of giving Kevin Costner’s version a good kicking if we could,” says Irvin, now 85. “The studio wanted to go immediately because they wanted to pre-empt Costner.” The Data Analysis: A Modest Budget and Box Office Return The film had a modest budget and was released internationally, but in the US it premiered as a three-hour TV film in May 1991. Costner’s film took just short of $400m in worldwide receipts and became the year’s summer blockbuster. The Impact Analysis: Anti-Thatcherism and Social Commentary Irvin admitted: “The production was tricky. It was cold and wet. It was winter, so Robin Hood couldn’t be in ‘Merry England’. All the trees were bare, so nobody could hide and ambush people. “Quite serendipitously, we found in Cheshire, near the castle, a whole warren of salt mines. I thought it was perfect because it was underground. It was my attempt to give a more honest version of Robin Hood during the middle ages. Around the time of the film there were poll tax [protests] in England. There is a sort of underlying current of anti-Thatcherism in the movie, which was picked up by one or two critics. We tried, without being too on-the-nose, to make it relevant to Thatcher’s England. It was subversive, but in a very, I hope, subtle and nuanced way.” The Prediction: A Legacy Reevaluated “I think it holds up well. The story of Robin Hood seems to be woven into our national psyche. When there’s a sense of oppression, it’s good to have a saviour like Robin Hood, who’s going to give two fingers to the establishment.”

The Emergence of Literary Nepo Babies The phenomenon of children of famous novelists becoming writers themselves is on the rise. Historically, there have been instances of literary families, such as Alexandre Dumas père and fils, Fanny and Anthony Trollope, and Arthur and Evelyn Waugh. However, the current trend seems to be gaining momentum. Following in the Footsteps of Famous Parents Kazuo Ishiguro's daughter, Naomi, is set to publish the first in her new fantasy series. Margaret Atwood's daughter, Jess Gibson, has published her fiction debut, and Patrick Charnley, son of poet and novelist Helen Dunmore, has published his first novel to critical acclaim. The Influence of Growing Up in a Writer's Household Nick Harkaway, son of John le Carré, shares his experience of growing up in a writer's household. He recalls that his father's work was ubiquitous, but he didn't realize the unusual nature of his childhood until later in life. Deborah Moggach, whose parents were both authors, notes that she thinks everyone must have writer parents, as it was all she knew. The Role of Parental Influence and Expectations Children of writers often have a unique perspective on their parents' work. Amanda Craig's daughter, Leon, notes that her mother's writing seemed like a way of life, and she didn't feel like she had a choice but to write. Aidan Cottrell-Boyce, son of Frank Cottrell-Boyce, didn't tell his father about his writing until it was discovered by someone else. The Future of Literary Dynasties As more children of famous novelists embark on writing careers, it's clear that the trend of literary nepo babies is here to stay. Whether this trend will lead to a new generation of talented writers or simply perpetuate a cycle of privilege remains to be seen.

The UK Biobank Data Breach: A Minor Setback One thing Britain is exceptionally good at is collecting and using health data for research, studying cohorts of people over many decades. A shudder of alarm rippled through the research world at the news this week that UK Biobank’s data had been put up for sale on China’s Alibaba site, with the science minister, Patrick Vallance, saying that more attempts to sell the data in China were expected. Understanding the Breach and Its Impact Biobank dashed to reassure its 500,000 members, and as a longtime volunteer I received a message not only explaining what had happened but listing some of the invaluable research findings and remedies that had already sprung from our data. Remarkably, a representative for Biobank told me that only about 100 people inquired about withdrawing, and after each was spoken to, only 50 actually backed out – pretty impressive. Prof Sir Rory Collins, Biobank’s chief executive, says he will personally speak to any anxious participant. The Value of Biobank Data The list of good done using Biobank data includes a blood test revealing motor neurone disease years before symptoms arise, a single gene behind almost all Alzheimer’s cases and a score to decide which overweight people have most risk factors and should be first for weight-reduction drugs. Challenges and Future Directions Longitudinal studies have been a research jewel, allowing projects such as studying children born in the same month who are then followed throughout their lives. In the UK we have followed groups of people from 1946, 1958, 1970, 1989-90 and 2000-2002 and there is now a new study recruiting 30,000 babies this year. The organisation Use My Data, which founded by cancer patients grateful for research that saved their lives, campaigns to get people to join research projects, helping researchers devise trustworthy transparent data systems. The Future of Health Data Research Summon up your public spirit. A population-wide study recruiting now is Our Future Health, seeking 5 million volunteers, so sign up here. I’ve already done so – it’s simple, just a blood sample and a questionnaire gets you a £10 token. Everyone benefits.

The Lead IO Interactive's new Bond game, 007 First Light, offers a fresh take on the iconic character, blending elements from various Bond eras. Crafting a New Bond If you want to tell the tale of a young James Bond, you first need to pick which James Bond he's going to grow into. This was the task handed to Hitman developer IO Interactive, the studio taking digital custody of the spy in 007 First Light, Bond's first video game in almost 15 years. The Bond Blueprint The game's Bond, depicted by Patrick Gibson, is an amalgam: the facial scar is an Ian Fleming detail, but the sweet-talking charm is straight from the Pierce Brosnan playbook. Senior combat designer Tom Marcham welcomes any Bond who walks through the door, saying, 'We're truly happy for you to pick whatever [style] you want.' Gameplay and Style The game convincingly moves between playstyles, from a swanky Kensington press conference to gadget-infused stealth and bursts of hand-to-hand combat. The performance works, with Gibson bringing an outsider's unease that's all his own, anchored by the arrogance that'll one day be weaponised by MI6. The Future of Bond 007 First Light is set to be released on PC, PS5, and Xbox on 27 May, and later in summer on Nintendo Switch 2. With its blend of timeless, romantic adventure and a crisp, modern edge, IO Interactive's Bond aims to challenge and excite players.

James Comey, former FBI director, appeared in a federal court in Virginia on April 29, 2026 after being indicted on two counts alleging a threat against President Donald Trump. The indictment revives a contentious legal battle that pits the former bureau chief against a Justice Department perceived as aligned with the president.The Court Appearance: Comey Faces Federal Threat ChargesComey turned himself in on Wednesday, entered the courtroom through a side entrance typically used by defendants, and did not speak during the brief hearing. His attorney, Patrick Fitzgerald, announced that the defense will argue the prosecution is vindictive, aimed at punishing Comey for exercising his legal rights.Charges: threatening the life of the president and transmitting a threatening communication across state lines.Judge: a U.S. magistrate ordered Comey’s release without special conditions.Next appearance: scheduled in North Carolina, where the grand jury returned the indictment.Legal Stakes: Potential Penalties and Charge SummaryThe indictment outlines two federal counts, each carrying a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a fine, or both. While the prosecution argues a “reasonable recipient” would view the Instagram post featuring the number “8647” as a serious threat, Comey maintains the image was a harmless arrangement of seashells.Political Reverberations: DOJ’s Renewed Targeting of Trump CriticsThis case is part of a broader push by the Trump‑aligned Justice Department to pursue criminal charges against individuals deemed political adversaries. Last year, President Trump publicly called for criminal investigations into Comey and other critics, framing the legal actions as a defense of his administration.Looking Ahead: Upcoming North Carolina Hearing and Broader ImplicationsThe forthcoming hearing in North Carolina will test whether the courts accept the prosecution’s interpretation of the “8647” post as a credible threat. A conviction could set a precedent for how social‑media expressions are evaluated under federal threat statutes, while an acquittal may embolden other political figures to challenge what they view as selective prosecution.

The LeadMadagascar has taken significant diplomatic and legal actions against French nationals, detaining a former French serviceman and expelling a French embassy agent over allegations of a destabilization plot against the island nation. The move has escalated tensions between Madagascar and France, the country's former colonial power.The Event DetailsAccording to Deputy Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa, the former French national serviceman, Guy Baret, has been placed in pretrial detention at Tsiafahy maximum-security prison. A Malagasy army officer, Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy, and other alleged accomplices have also been implicated in the plot.The suspects are accused of planning actions initially set for April 18, targeting the stability of Madagascar's government led by President Michael Randrianirina, who seized power in October 2025 following protests against his predecessor.The Legal ChargesProsecutors have formally charged the suspects with several serious offenses:Spreading false information to disturb public orderPlotting to sabotage infrastructure including power lines and thermal plants operated by state utility JiramaHarboring wanted individualsCriminal conspiracyRakotomamonjy is awaiting presentation before an investigating judge, while two other suspects have been placed under judicial supervision, with prosecutors indicating they were not the masterminds of the conspiracy.The Diplomatic ResponseFrance has strongly rejected the accusations, summoning the charge d'affaires of the Madagascan embassy in Paris "to vigorously protest" the expulsion of the diplomatic official. French Foreign Ministry spokesman Pascal Confavreux stated that France "categorically rejected any accusation of destabilising the Refoundation regime of the Republic of Madagascar," calling the accusations "unfounded" and "incomprehensible."In response, Madagascar's Foreign Ministry confirmed that French Ambassador Arnaud Guillois had been summoned and informed of the decision regarding the embassy agent, though the agent's identity and specific alleged acts were not disclosed.The Regional ContextThe incident occurs against a backdrop of political instability in Madagascar, a former French colony that maintains close political ties to France. The country has experienced multiple power changes in recent decades, with President Randrianirina taking control after youth-led protests forced his predecessor, Andry Rajoelina, from power in October 2025. Notably, France assisted Rajoelina's departure during the escalating protests over water and energy shortages.This diplomatic confrontation adds to regional tensions in the Indian Ocean and Africa, where former colonial powers and African nations continue to navigate complex post-colonial relationships.

BP’s first‑quarter earnings have more than doubled, driven by soaring oil and gas prices linked to the escalating US‑Israel conflict with Iran, while the company navigates heightened geopolitical risk and shareholder pressure.BP’s Q1 Profit Surge Amid Middle‑East ConflictUnderlying profit reached $3.2 bn (£2.4 bn), up from $1.38 bn a year earlier.Results beat City forecasts of $2.67 bn.CEO Meg O’Neill highlighted the “environment of conflict and complexity” and the firm’s role in keeping energy flowing.Financial Upswing: Underlying Profit Jumps to $3.2 bnProfit growth attributed to an “exceptional oil trading contribution”.Shareholder rebellion earlier in the week added pressure on governance.BP’s trading desk benefitted from price spikes after the Hormuz strait bottleneck intensified.Geopolitical Shockwaves: How the US‑Israel‑Iran Standoff Fuels Energy MarketsOil prices surged after the US‑Israel war on Iran began in late February.The vital Strait of Hormuz remains effectively blocked, tightening global supply.Fears of jet‑fuel shortages could trigger widespread flight cancellations.Critics, such as Global Witness head Patrick Galey, compare the profit surge to the post‑Ukraine‑invasion windfalls for oil majors.What’s Next for BP and Global Energy Supply?BP pledges to work with customers and governments to deliver fuel where needed.Continued volatility may pressure margins if conflict escalates or supply routes reopen.Investors will watch how the new CEO balances profit growth with ESG and shareholder expectations.

The Ovine Twist on Cozy CrimeThe film adaptation of Leonie Swann’s bestselling novel *Three Bags Full* introduces a unique premise to the cozy crime genre: a flock of sheep solving a murder mystery in an English village. Directed by Despicable Me veteran Kyle Balda, the movie aims to capture the charm of classics like *Babe* while delivering the wit of *The Thursday Murder Club*.Star-Studded Cast and Production ValueHugh Jackman stars as George Hardy, a shepherd who communicates with his flock using instinct and readings from detective stories.Features a voice cast including Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Chris O'Dowd, Patrick Stewart, Bryan Cranston, and Emma Thompson.Utilizes next-level digital technology to bring the sheep to life with expressive personalities and complex relationships.Reimagining the Mystery GenreThe film represents a significant shift in the cozy crime genre by removing the human element from the investigation. By focusing on the emotional investment in the sheep rather than just the human victims, the film creates a distinct 'feelgood' atmosphere that bypasses the typical sadness of murder mysteries, offering a 'traumatised flock' finding their voice.Future Outlook for Family CinemaWith releases set for May 7 in Australia and May 8 in the UK and US, the film is positioned to capture the family market during the spring release window. Its blend of British wit and animation suggests strong potential for international appeal and a new sub-genre of animal-led mysteries.

The Shift from Science to SportWhile the UK government once relied on figures like Professors Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance to guide public health, the current focus has shifted to the climate and nature emergency. Recognizing that scientific reports often fail to resonate with the general public, experts are now looking to a different sector for a solution: sport. The argument is that sports clubs and athletes possess a unique ability to make the climate crisis tangible and urgent.Launching the People's Emergency BriefingThe central event driving this initiative is 'The People's Emergency Briefing,' a condensed 45-minute film derived from the 'National Emergency Briefing.' This event brought together over 1,000 guests, including MPs, to discuss tipping points, weather extremes, and food security. The film has been released with significant backing from the British Ecological Society and the Campaign to Protect Rural England, aiming to move the conversation from abstract concepts to community action.Climate Impacts on the Playing FieldThe urgency of the climate crisis is already being felt on the sports field. Data indicates that one-third of grassroots football clubs in the UK are losing between six and eight weeks of playing time annually due to flooding. Furthermore, global events are adapting to extreme heat; the Tokyo Olympics marathon was moved 800 miles north to Sapporo to avoid dangerous conditions. These disruptions highlight that the climate emergency is not a distant threat but a current reality affecting how we play and exercise.Why Athletes Are the Ultimate MessengersProf Paul Behrens argues that sport reaches people in a way that scientific reports cannot. It is a local, visceral experience that fosters community. The article highlights that high-profile athletes across football, tennis, and motor sport are increasingly adopting plant-rich diets, which align with planetary health. This convergence of personal health and planetary health creates a powerful narrative for change, suggesting that athletes are among the most effective messengers for the climate cause.Building Pressure for Government ActionThe ultimate goal of this grassroots movement is to build sufficient public pressure to compel the government to hold its own non-partisan climate briefing. With the political climate making it difficult to grab attention, the organizers hope that screenings in community centers and sports clubs will serve as a catalyst. The strategy relies on collaboration and community engagement to force a dialogue that transcends political divides.