David Jason Talks About His Career And Hogfather
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Written by maljonic
Tuesday, 28 November 2006 |
Sir David Jason said he was glad to be back in comedy, with his starring role in the new adaptation of Terry Pratchett's Hogfather.
The English actor, best known as Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses, has recently played more sober roles such as Detective Jack Frost in the TV series A Touch of Frost, but plays a more light-hearted role in the new film as Death's manservant, Albert.
 Speaking at the world premiere of the film last night, Sir David said: "When this opportunity came along it was a great opportunity for me to get back into doing funny characters.
"Because I started my career playing all sorts of characters - mainly funny ones - and I thought I was missing that a bit."
He added: "I'd been playing all sorts of serious roles, that I'd enjoyed - though you can't say that Frost is totally serious.
"But when this came along I thought well here's an opportunity to get back playing a funny character."
He said his character in the film "is rather odd, but then this is a Terry Pratchett film".
Pratchett himself was also at the premiere, at the Curzon cinema in Mayfair, London.
Talking about the adaptation, he said: "It's been a long time coming and I've turned down quite a few approaches but I feel really good about this one. I really am pleased with what they've been doing."
Vadim Jean, who directed the film and adapted the story for the screen, joined the author at the premiere. Several cast members were also present, including Timeteam's Tony Robinson, newcomer Michelle Dockery, Ian Richardson (House of Cards) and Nigel Planer, who played Neil in 1980s comedy The Young Ones.
Hogfather is set in Discworld, the fantasy world in which a number of Pratchett novels are set.
The Hogfather, similar to Father Christmas, disappears the night before "Hogswatch" and Death is the only person who can save the day.
Tony Robinson, who plays Vernon Crumley in the film, has previously recorded 41 of the Terry Pratchett audiotapes. He described it as "Harry Potter without the schmaltz and without the kids".
Hogfather is set to transmit on Sky One at Christmas 2006.
At a question and answer session with the audience after yesterday's screening, Sir David said: "I liked the idea of playing a bloody silly loony really, that's what attracted me."
He said his character was based mainly on the book, adding: "I didn't actually draw on anyone in particular ... Tony Blair springs to mind ..."
Asked if children would be frightened of Death, he said: "He becomes quite endearing. You forget he's a skeleton. He's just a guy who's trying his best.
"I think the kids will like him. I know I did."
Sir David congratulated the film's makers for "breaking down the barriers" to produce Hogfather on a limited budget, adding: "I think you've achieved what the Americans would have thrown money at."
Pratchett confessed he had a small bottle of brandy with him when he watched the film "because I was just so nervous", but said: "I'm very pleased. I don't know how I could have possibly done it better."
Copyright Press Association 2006.
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