(Garth Jennings / 2005 / UK-USA / 109 Mins / Cert PG)
(Tues 5th / 8pm / £2ttt)

One of the most enduring cult comic creations of the late 20th century, Douglas Adams' well trodden tale of a man who wakes up one day to find his best friend is an alien and that his planet is about to be destroyed to make way for a hyperspace by-pass, has threatened to find its way onto the big screen for well over 20 years. Adams' himself spoke with great passion about the project at every given opportunity, and spent much time and effort working to solve the inherent narrative problems in what was essentially an open-ended meandering picaresque tale which served as a vehicle for his observations on contemporary British life. Sadly Adams never lived to see his life's work complete - one of the bitter ironies being that his death sparked renewed interest in the project. One can be sure that were he still around, he would not be disappointed in the exceptional job by first time feature director Garth Jennings, who manages to capture the light wit and verve of the original radio series, whilst injecting a lively cinematic force into the overall narrative distinctly lacking in previous incarnations.

Heralding a fine cast, and exceptional animations by London based collective Shynola, this certainly gives certain other sci-fi summer blockbusters a run for their money!